Osteoporosis

Our Approach to Treatment

Houston Methodist uses the latest noninvasive technology to test women for osteoporosis by measuring bone density, as well as assess bone health and strength. Our advanced evaluations identify bone weaknesses and help women consider treatment options as early as possible.

Definition
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become fragile and more likely to fracture, most frequently in postmenopausal women. Men also are at risk for developing the disease.

Causes
No one knows what causes osteoporosis. Older women with slight builds and estrogen deficiencies developed during menopause are most susceptible to the disease.

Symptoms
The vast majority of patients have no symptoms until a bone breaks. Prevention includes: 

• Regular exercise
• Reduced caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Smoking cessation 
• Adequate calcium and vitamin D consumption

Diagnostics

• Bone densitometry (DEXA) scan — also known as a bone density test. An imaging test used to measure and score bone loss

Prevention
Although the exact medical cause of osteoporosis is still undetermined, there are some factors known to play a role in the disease. Women who are advanced in age, have a slight build and have estrogen deficiency — such as that developed during menopause — are most susceptible. However, you can take the following steps to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis:

• Exercise regularly
• Minimize caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Stop smoking
• Maintain an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D