Studies suggest that as many as 1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4 men age 50 and older will break a bone due to osteoporosis. While this disease is common, many people who have it don’t even realize it until a fracture occurs.
Holland Hospital Bone Health helps you understand your risk for osteoporosis, as well as give you the tools and treatment to achieve optimal bone health so you can continue to enjoy an active and full life into the future.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease where your bones become weak, brittle and more likely to break. People who have it typically break bones in their hip, spine and wrist. A condition that strikes both men and women, osteoporosis has been called a “silent disease” because you can’t feel your bones getting weaker. Those who have osteoporosis are at risk of bone fracture from something as insignificant as a minor fall, bumping into furniture, or even a cough or sneeze.
Dedicated to You—and Your Bones
Our team offers personalized and comprehensive care, and specializes in bone health management and fracture prevention.
If you’ve already been diagnosed or are at risk for osteoporosis, Holland Hospital Bone Health can help ensure your continued quality of life. Throughout your care, your primary caregiver will be kept abreast of your test results, treatment plan and progress. Our team will work with you to understand your current bone health, take steps to improve your condition, and limit your potential for future fracture.
A Comprehensive Diagnosis
Holland Hospital Bone Health embraces a multidisciplinary approach to managing the health and wellness of your bones. With the ultimate goal of preventing fractures, we offer an initial one-on-one bone health assessment that includes: evaluating your medical history and your exercise and nutritional status; performing a fall risk assessment and bone-mineral density screening* (if not performed within the past two years); and providing educational strategies for better bone health.
* Recommended for women age 65 and older. Post-menopausal women younger than 65 should be screened if they have significant risk factors associated with osteoporosis.
Treatment: Building a Stronger You
Osteoporosis is both preventable and treatable. There is great hope for those living with this chronic disease. Although 50 percent of women will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime, making key lifestyle changes and taking medications (if needed) can go a long way toward reducing bone loss, and increasing independence throughout your lifetime.
Together, we will build a personalized and comprehensive bone health program based on your initial assessment and diagnosis. Your treatment may include:
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Osteoporosis medication (e.g., Forteo, Prolia, Reclast and oral biphosphonates)
- Weight-bearing and other exercise recommendations
- Referral to physical therapy and/or occupational therapy
- Referral to nutrition services
- Strategies for avoiding excessive alcohol and/or soda consumption
- Ongoing guidance and education
Meet the Physician
Laura Norder, CFNP
