Osteoporosis: Bone Disease Treatment in Miami

What is Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by thinning of the bones. It usually affects women and men as they age. At Burks Spine Surgery, we have extensive experience in treating osteoporosis, a condition marked by a reduction in bone density that typically affects both men and women as they age. Our specialized care includes managing calcium and vitamin D metabolism and administering medications that can slow or even reverse the progression of bone loss.

Osteoporosis causes bones to become abnormally porous and compressible like a sponge, making them more prone to fractures, even with minor injuries or movements that would not affect a healthy person. In areas such as the hips, osteoporosis can lead to hip fractures, while in the spine; it can cause the vertebrae to collapse, resulting in a compression fracture. If left untreated, osteoporosis can significantly impact a person’s mobility and overall quality of life.

Fractures associated with osteoporosis can affect nearly any bone in the body, though the spine, hips, ribs, and wrists are the most commonly affected areas. Our clinic also specializes in the treatment of parathyroid disorders, which regulate bone homeostasis and calcium levels in the body.

Causes of Osteoporosis

The human bone structure is in a perpetual state of renewal, continuously constructing new bones and breaking down old ones to maintain its strength. This dynamic process of cell turnover leads to the regeneration of most of our skeleton every decade. During our younger years, we produce more bone than we break down, facilitating growth and shaping our physique. However, this peak bone-building phase occurs in our twenties and eventually slows down, causing the body to lose bone mass faster than it can create it.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis usually does not manifest symptoms in its initial stages, and a person may only become aware of it once they suffer a bone fracture or break. At our facility, Dr. Shelby Burks takes special care to screen patients undergoing menopause for Osteoporosis, Osteopenia, and Sarcopenia, as early detection and treatment can be crucial in managing these conditions effectively.

With the progress of this condition, you may notice symptoms including the following:

• Back pain
• Height loss
• Curved/deformed posture
• Bones break easily (common areas are in wrists, vertebra, & hips)

Diagnosing Osteoporosis

Individuals aged 50 and above, irrespective of gender, have a heightened risk of developing osteoporosis. As this disease does not exhibit obvious symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shelby Burks, particularly as you age or suspect any related risk factors. This will enable us to evaluate your condition and ascertain whether any risk factors are applicable to you.

Osteoporosis can develop silently without presenting any apparent signs or symptoms. Considering that this disease is preventable and treatable, it’s crucial to schedule a consultation to safeguard your bones and overall health. Our advanced imaging services enable you to receive a BMD, which tests the density of your bones. This test is safe, painless, and provides you and your doctor with vital information about your bones, facilitating diagnosis and effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Osteoporosis

Effective management of osteoporosis can be achieved through positive lifestyle changes and adhering to appropriate treatment plans. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shelby Burks. We offer cutting-edge imaging services to identify bone fractures and low-radiation x-rays to assess bone density. These tests can also help identify any underlying factors contributing to bone loss.

Before initiating treatment, your doctor will thoroughly evaluate your medical history, conduct a comprehensive physical examination, and carry out relevant laboratory tests. Based on various risk factors, treatment plans may differ from person to person. To determine your individual needs and improve your quality of life, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shelby Burks.

Schedule A Consultation Today!

With extensive proficiency in detecting and managing osteoporosis, Dr. Shelby and his team are dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients. Our facility is well-equipped to regulate calcium levels, enhance vitamin D metabolism, and prescribe suitable medication to slow down or reverse bone loss.