Osteoporosis, also known as “brittle bone disease,” is characterized by low bone strength, which makes bones weak and more likely to fracture. Statistics show that more than 50 million Americans have low bone mass or osteoporosis, 80% of them being women.

When To Address Osteoporosis Symptoms With a Doctor

Osteoporosis is the leading cause of fracture in our aging population. Falling from a standing position or a bone cracking from normal pressure is often an indicative sign of weakness due to osteoporosis. If you have had a fracture, you should discuss your condition with a health care provider specialized in rheumatology to determine if the cause may be osteoporosis.

Types of Osteoporosis

There are two types of Osteoporosis that occur when calcium and phosphate minerals are imbalanced and new bone formation cannot be achieved correctly.

• Type 1 Osteoporosis typically occurs in women after menopause. The bones begin to lose substance from within and weaken when estrogen levels decrease throughout the body.
• Type 2 Osteoporosis occurs when the bone substance thins both from the inside and out usually around the age of 70.

Osteoporosis Causes and Risk Factors  

The following examples are other risk factors associated with Osteoporosis.  

• Family history of osteoporosis
• Personal history of rheumatoid arthritis or using steroids for a prolonged timeframe
• Personal history of broken bones, especially in non-traumatic situations
• Women aged 65 or older, especially white or Asian decent
• Low body weight (less than 130 lbs) or small body frame
• Long-term use of corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone and cortisone
• Postmenopausal women under 65 with other risk factors
• Postmenopausal women who discontinue hormone therapy or have thyroid problems
• Women with early onset of menopause (before age 45)
• Men aged 70 or older, or over 50 with other risk factors, especially African-American or Hispanic men
• Lactose intolerant and/or avoid calcium in your diet
• Smoking cigarettes and cigars

Osteoporosis Care at IBJI

Successful bone health management requires a comprehensive treatment approach for each patient. The Osteoporosis Centers of the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute in Bannockburn, Morton Grove and Des Plaines focus on low bone mass risks for all patients. We use state-of-the-art Bone Density Scan (DXA) and Vertebral Fracture Analyses (VFA) instruments to accurately determine your risks of osteoporosis throughout the body. Our rheumatologists and diagnostic imaging technicians work closely to discuss your exam results and apply the best treatment options.