Bones are fundamental for movement. They protect your organs and contribute
to your overall strength. Osteoporosis and low bone mass are common conditions
that weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures. A fracture after
age 50 may be a warning sign of underlying osteoporosis.
Parrish Healthcare’s Bone Health Program is designed to identify
individuals at risk, evaluate bone strength, and implement evidence-based
strategies to prevent first and future fractures through coordinated care.
What to Expect During Your Bone Health Visit:
A bone health visit is a focused evaluation with your primary care provider
that includes a review of medical and fracture history, assessment of
fall risk, balance and mobility, evaluation of calcium and vitamin D intake,
review of medications affecting bone density, determination of need for
a DXA scan, ordering of appropriate labs (vitamin D, calcium, thyroid
and others as indicated), and development of a personalized osteoporosis
treatment and fracture prevention plan.
To prepare for your first osteoporosis or bone health appointment, please
bring the following items (if applicable):
List of current medications, vitamins and supplements
Prior bone density (DXA) scan or imaging reports
History of falls, fractures or injuries
Any questions or concerns for your provider about osteoporosis or bone health
To determine your level of fracture risk, your provider will review medical
history, medications, prior fractures, balance, gait and mobility, and
calcium and vitamin D intake. If indicated, they may order a DXA scan
and laboratory tests to evaluate for secondary causes of bone loss and
coordinate appropriate referrals, including:
Physical Therapy (for balance and strengthening)
Endocrinology (for complex bone conditions)
Orthopedics (if considering surgery)
How to Strengthen and Protect Your Bones From Osteoporosis
Eat calcium-rich foods and ensure adequate vitamin D intake, stay active
with weight-bearing and resistance exercises, reduce fall risks at home,
wear supportive footwear, avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Regular monitoring and treatment when appropriate can help reduce fracture risk.
Fall Prevention and Fracture Risk Reduction
Falls are a leading cause of osteoporotic fractures, but many are preventable.
Parrish Healthcare’s Bone Health Program emphasizes proactive fall
prevention strategies, including:
Keep walking pathways clear
Install bathroom grab bars and handrails
Improve lighting in hallways and stairways
Schedule annual vision examinations
Use assistive devices when recommended
Review medications that may increase fall risk with your provider
Fracture After Age 50? Don't Ignore It
A fragility fracture (a fracture from a low-impact fall or minor injury)
may indicate underlying osteoporosis. Parrish Healthcare’s Bone
Health Program focuses on bone density evaluation, identification of secondary
causes of bone loss, optimization of calcium and vitamin D, initiation
of osteoporosis treatment when appropriate, and structured fracture prevention
planning. Taking action after a fracture can significantly reduce the
risk of another fracture.
Please contact your Primary Care Provider to learn more.
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