What is the Osteoporosis Program?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become thin, weak and easily fractured. It is often the result of aging and hormonal deficiencies. Postmenopausal women are at particular risk for osteoporosis thanks to the drop in estrogen that occurs after menopause.

Orthopedics Department Specialties

In Summit Health’s orthopedics department, we treat complications associated with osteoporosis (e.g., fractures), and our specialists are frequently the first physicians to identify the presence of the condition. As such, this program was developed both to direct you to the treatment you need and to minimize the consequences of osteoporosis.

Other Summit Health Departments

Our orthopedics department works hand-in-hand with the following departments in order to provide you with world-class care for your osteoporosis:

  • Endocrinology: Endocrinology is the study and treatment of hormonal conditions. At Summit Health, our endocrinologists can guide your therapy, from medication and supplements to diet and exercise.
  • Family Medicine: Family medicine practitioners have much of the same training as internists, with additional training in pediatrics. That means a family medicine practitioner can both treat your osteoporosis and help ensure your children grow up at lower risk for this condition.
  • Internal Medicine: Your primary care provider often acts as the quarterback of your medical treatment team. He or she can help direct your osteoporosis treatment.
  • Obstetrics/Gynecology (OB/GYN): Because postmenopausal women are at increased risk for osteoporosis, your OB/GYN will play a unique and important role in your osteoporosis management.
  • Physical Therapy: You may need physical therapy after a fracture. Our physical therapists understand the specific needs of patients with osteoporosis and can greatly speed your recovery.
  • Rheumatology: A rheumatologist is especially qualified to administer and interpret the results of a bone mineral density scan, one of the diagnostic tests for osteoporosis. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis–an inflammatory condition of the joints that rheumatologists often treat–is one of the risk factors for developing osteoporosis, so a rheumatologist may be able to spot early signs of the condition.
  • Urgent Care: People with osteoporosis are especially prone to fractures. If you suspect you’ve had a fracture and your regular physician is unavailable, our urgent care department can diagnose you and get you on the road to treatment and recovery.