Osteoporosis and Bone Health

Bones constantly lose old tissue and add new. As we get older, our bodies struggle to make new bone as fast as the old is absorbed. When that balance shifts, bones (“osteo”) can become more porous (“poros”). This condition, osteoporosis, leaves bones vulnerable to breaks called fragility fractures.

These fractures can happen more easily than broken bones at younger ages. A sneeze, twist or fall from even a low height can cause a break. Some people even have vertebrae become weak and break under the body’s own weight.

Lowering Fracture Risks

Fragility fractures are a good sign of a big problem. Sadly, people who get a fragility fracture have an 86% higher risk of another. We are committed to reducing these painful events.

That’s why we’ve partnered with Own the Bone, a program that helps reduce future fractures by encouraging specific prevention steps.
 

Own the Bone® Steps

When patients come to Overlake Medical Center for fragility fractures, they’ll receive more than just basic treatment. Our Own the Bone program includes specific guidance to help patients avoid future fragility fractures.

These steps include:

• Nutrition and lifestyle counseling to help you strengthen your bones.
• Physical activity guidance to strengthen bones and muscles and prevent falls.
• Medication therapy when appropriate.
• Testing bone mineral density.
• Communication so both you and your primary care provider know the next steps to take to improve your bone health.

If you have osteoporosis or are concerned about your bone health, talk with your primary care provider.