Explore Your Treatment Options for Osteoporosis in Northern California

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, breaking easily. Osteoporosis mainly affects older women. 

Diagnosing Osteoporosis

Our doctors use a bone density test (also called bone density scan or dual X-ray absorptiometry, or DXA) to diagnose osteoporosis. It’s a specialized X-ray that measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. Rely on our facilities to be equipped with the latest technologies for the most advanced care.

Osteoporosis Causes

Health experts don’t know the exact cause of osteoporosis, but it’s clear that age, gender, personal habits, and certain diseases and conditions play a role.

You have a greater risk for osteoporosis if you: 

  • Smoke tobacco or drink alcohol
  • Have certain medication conditions, including diabetes, thyroid problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease
  • Have a family history of osteoporosis and bone fractures
  • Eat a diet lacking in calcium or vitamin D
  • Are short and slender
  • Are physically inactive
  • Are female and older than 50 (however, men and younger adults also develop the disease)

Osteoporosis Symptoms

The main symptom of osteoporosis (and often the first sign) is a broken bone. If you experience a broken bone from osteoporosis, it most frequently occurs in the wrist, hip, or spine. A loss of bone mass in the spine may also cause a stooped or hunched back, back pain, and loss of height.

Osteoporosis Treatment & Diagnosis at Dignity Health

There is no cure for osteoporosis. However, orthopedic doctors at state-of-the-art Dignity Health hospitals in the Sacramento region offer treatment and counseling on lifestyle changes that can help reduce bone loss and further complications such as fractures.

Your doctor may recommend the following treatments for osteoporosis:

  • Not smoking
  • Limiting alcohol
  • Low-impact, weight-bearing exercises
  • Diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
  • Medications

Our award-winning orthopedic services are recognized throughout the region, so find reliable care from one of our experts today.

Dignity Health provides diagnosis and treatment for joint conditions, such as for osteoporosis, in Sacramento, CA and the surrounding areas.

Take the Next Step

If you think orthopedic surgery may be the solution for your pain, call Dignity Health in Sacramento at (916) 851-2511 or request an appointment online.