Bone Health Frequently Asked Questions

Primary care providers typically identify bone-related conditions and initiate treatment. Bone health specialists deliver comprehensive, specialized care for patients with complex or high-risk bone health needs. Specifically, they:

• Specialize in medication management for osteoporosis
• Identify secondary causes of bone loss
• Collaborate with orthopedic teams, particularly around surgery
• Address treatment failure or medication intolerance
• Develop long-term, comprehensive bone health strategies

In addition to abnormal CT bone mineral density results, our bone health services are appropriate for:

• Women age 65 and older and men age 70 and older, especially those with additional risk factors
• Postmenopausal women and men age 50 and older with a history of fragility fracture
• Younger postmenopausal women (age 64 and younger) and men (age 50–69) with significant risk factors, including:
  • Strong family history (parent with hip fracture)
  • Low body mass index or low body weight
  • Smoking or excessive alcohol use
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or other chronic inflammatory diseases
  • Long-term steroid use (prednisone or equivalent)
  • Endocrine disorders (hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, hypogonadism, Cushing’s syndrome)

.

A strong family history alone may warrant earlier screening or consultation in postmenopausal women age 64 and younger and men age 50–69.

We can assist with:

• Preventive counseling (nutrition, resistance training, fall prevention)
• Risk assessment
• Guidance on appropriate screening intervals
• Medication counseling when risk is elevated

Yes. A bone health specialist should be involved when:

• Rapid bone loss is suspected
• Hormone therapy is being considered or is already in use
• Additional risk factors are present