The Bone Health Program at TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine was created to identify those patients presenting with fractures that might indicate osteoporosis. We will investigate to determine if osteoporosis is present, and, if needed, start the patient on a course of treatment to manage their osteoporosis to reduce their risk of future fractures. Is it time for your fracture-vention?
Nationally Recognized
Expertise in Preventing Fractures
The American Orthopedic Association's Own the Bone® quality improvement program recognizes outstanding institutions for providing bone health care to prevent fractures.
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine is honored to continue delivering best-in-class preventive care to the South Texas region.
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine is honored to continue delivering best-in-class preventive care to the South Texas region.
What is Osteoporosis
Orthopedic surgeons treat fractures all the time, but did you know that certain fractures can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem? If you are over the age of 50 and experience one of the following types of fractures, you should be screened for osteoporosis:
- Wrist (Distal Radius) Fracture
- Spine (Vertebral) Fracture
- Hip Fracture
- Shoulder (Proximal Humerus) Fracture
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone in which you lose too much bone as you age, making your bones more porous than they should be and weakening their underlying structure. The more porous your bones become, the more likely they are to break.
Who is at Risk for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can affect both men and women, but multiple factors can increase your risk for developing osteoporosis, including:
- Age – older people are at greater risk.
- Race – people of Asian or Caucasian descent are at greater risk.
- Gender – women are at greater risk than men.
- Hormone Levels – a reduction in testosterone or estrogen can increase your risk for osteoporosis.
- Eating Habits – a diet low in vitamin D and calcium can put you at greater risk.
- Eating Disorders – bulimia or anorexia can increase your risk.
- Lifestyle – people with a sedentary lifestyle are at greater risk.
- Family History – a family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures can increase your risk
- Smoking – recent studies have shown a relationship between smoking and reduced bone density.
- Frame Size – a smaller frame size can increase your risk.
- Medical Conditions – certain conditions (including Type 1 Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease) can increase your risk for developing osteoporosis.
Unchecked, these individuals are at significantly increased risk for additional bone loss and future fractures. That’s why TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine created the Bone Health Program.
Fracture Follow-Up
If you are over the age of 50 and are treated for a fracture known to be indicative of osteoporosis, your physician may refer you for a Bone Health consultation. During your bone health consultation a provider will work with you to:
- Educate you on osteoporosis and why you are considered at risk.
- Evaluate your specific case with a detailed history, physical, and referral for any additional testing necessary.
- Establish a treatment plan, which might include lifestyle changes and medication to prevent further bone loss or even rebuild bone.
Alexis Maiella, D.O.
Non-Surgical Sports Medicine Physician
Available at the following TSAOG locations:
- Ridgewood
- Mission Trail
- Grayson Heights
- Schertz
Janean Vargas, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner
Available at the following TSAOG locations:
- Ridgewood
- Quarry Area
Bone Health FAQs
What Is a Bone Health Evaluation?
A bone health evaluation looks for osteoporosis and other factors that can weaken bones or increase fracture risk. TSAOG’s Bone Health Program reviews a patient’s fracture history, medical history, medications, and other risk factors to determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.
Who Should Consider a Bone Health Evaluation?
Adults with osteoporosis risk factors, a history of certain fractures, or concerns about bone strength may benefit from an evaluation. Certain fractures in adults over age 50 can be especially important to investigate because an injury after a relatively minor fall may point to weakened bones. Patients can also learn more about the warning signs of osteoporosis.
Do I Need to Have Osteoporosis to See a Bone Health Specialist?
No. You do not need an existing osteoporosis diagnosis to have your bone health evaluated. A specialist can assess risk factors, previous fractures, and other concerns to determine whether testing for osteoporosis or another bone health issue is needed.
What Types of Fractures Can Be a Sign of Osteoporosis?
Hip, wrist, spine, and upper-arm fractures are among the injuries that may raise concerns about osteoporosis, particularly in adults over 50. Fractures that occur after a fall from standing height or another relatively minor incident may prompt a physician to look more closely at bone strength and fracture risk.
What Happens During a Bone Health Appointment?
A bone health appointment typically includes a review of your medical history, previous fractures, medications, lifestyle, and other osteoporosis risk factors. Based on that information, the physician may recommend bone density testing or other tests and discuss ways to protect bone strength and reduce future fracture risk.
What Tests Are Used to Check Bone Health?
A bone density test, often called a DEXA or DXA scan, is commonly used to measure bone density and assess osteoporosis risk. Additional diagnostic imaging may be recommended depending on the patient’s medical and fracture history.
How Is Osteoporosis Treated?
Osteoporosis treatment may include nutrition and lifestyle changes, weight-bearing or strengthening exercise, fall-prevention strategies, and medication when appropriate. The treatment plan is based on the patient’s bone health, fracture risk, medical history, and other factors, with the goal of reducing the likelihood of future fractures.
Where Can I Get a Bone Health Evaluation in San Antonio?
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine offers bone health evaluations in San Antonio for patients concerned about osteoporosis, bone loss, or fractures that may indicate weakened bones. Patients can schedule an appointment to review their risk factors and discuss testing or treatment options.
Don’t Wait!
Schedule a Bone Health Consultation Now
Find A Clinic
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine at Ridgewood
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine near Alamo Quarry Market
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine at Brooks City Base
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine at Grayson Heights
TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine at Schertz Parkway
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