Share This

At EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region, our orthopedic experts are skilled and dedicated to diagnosing and treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. To help ensure total bone health, we offer many preventative solutions; this includes dual energy x-ray absorptiometry or “DEXA” bone density scans. This innovative technology enables our providers to determine if you have developed, or are at risk of developing, osteoporosis.

In addition to detecting osteoporosis, EmergeOrtho also treats diseases that occur when bones become brittle as a result of losing mass. Consulting with orthopedic doctors that specialize in bone health is vital, as those who are diagnosed with poor bone health are at risk for serious fractures of the hip, spine or ribs.

Ensuring Bone Health Through Patient-Centered Care

According to statistics, an estimated ten million Americans have osteoporosis and an additional 44 million people in the United States have low bone density. At EmergeOrtho our goal is to help protect Triangle area residents by arming them with the latest facts and preventative strategies relating to osteoporosis and poor bone health.

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose mass and become brittle. There are rarely any obvious symptoms, so often, the condition frequently goes undiagnosed until a serious fracture occurs. The risk of developing osteoporosis increases dramatically with age.

At EmergeOrtho, our extensive experience has enabled us to help thousands of patients with osteoporosis, identifying and treating the disease in time to prevent more serious problems from developing.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), the number of hip fractures due to osteoporosis increases around age 65 in women and age 75 in men. Twenty percent of those with a hip fracture die within one year, while half of those who survive a hip fracture are permanently incapacitated.

You are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis if you:

  • Are female
  • Age 50 or older
  • Have a family history of osteoporosis
  • Are petite or have a small body frame
  • Have hormonal or thyroid problems
  • Are a current smoker

Other Concerns Surrounding Bone Health

While millions of Americans have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are other aspects of bone health to consider, such as osteopenia. When an individual is diagnosed with osteopenia, it means that low bone mass has been identified, but is not severe enough to be considered osteoporosis. It is important for this condition to be monitored to avoid developing osteoporosis.

A DEXA bone density scan will reliably and painlessly determine the state of your bone health. Based on the results of your exam, EmergeOrtho orthopedic providers will help devise a personalized plan.

When Should You Schedule a Bone Density Exam?

According to the NOF, women upwards of age 65 and men over the age of 70 should have a bone density scan. People who have risk factors for osteoporosis may have a scan sooner. Whether male or female, if you have a family history of poor bone health, discuss the need for a bone density exam with your doctor.

The NOF suggests patients receive a bone density test if the following additional bone-health factors apply:

  • Spinal X-ray reveals a break or bone loss in the spine
  • Back pain (which includes a possible break in the spine)
  • Height decrease of one-half inch or more within one year
  • Height decrease of upwards of one and one-half inches from your original height

Keep in mind, the only way to test for osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs is by completing a bone density test.

DEXA Scan Facts

EmergeOrtho specializes in detection of bone loss in its earliest stages through the innovative technology of our Hologic DEXA Scanner. This painless, simple, reliable procedure of bone density scanning not only provides early detection of osteoporosis, it enables our doctors to proactively address the:

  • Chance of a future fracture
  • Rate of bone loss
  • Effects of treatment

It also exposes the patient to less radiation than one standard X-ray.

Personalized Bone Health Prevention and Physical Therapy Planning

Our providers review your bone density test and discuss interventions to help increase bone density and lessen the chances of a future fracture. If needed, additional lab tests are ordered and medications are prescribed. We also offer a physical therapy program that includes an evaluation with an experienced physical therapist and a personalized exercise program to help improve posture and strength, prevent falls and decrease the risk for fractures.

Your provider may also discuss ways to help you increase your Calcium and Vitamin D intake to help reinforce bone strength and health.

Medication and Medication Management

If you have low bone mass, there are medications that can help fortify your bones and delay or prevent the onset of osteoporosis. We will be happy to discuss your treatment options to determine what works best for you.

EmergeOrtho concentrates on treating the entire patient instead of merely managing a list of symptoms. We offer only the most advanced technology coupled with compassionate care to help you Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better.

For more information about osteoporosis treatment and prevention, or our extensive Triangle Region Bone Health services request a visit now Or, call us any time at 984.279.3648.

Medical Advice Disclaimer

This website does not provide medical advice. The information on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For questions regarding a medical condition or treatment, seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare providers. Never disregard professional medical advice because of something you read on this website. If you need medical advice or treatment, click here to schedule an appointment.

Find a Bone Health Specialist.

Locations

  • Apex
  • Brier Creek
  • Burlington
  • Chapel Hill
  • Clayton
  • Dunn
  • Durham
  • Fuquay-Varina
  • Oxford
  • Raleigh
  • Roxboro
  • Smithfield
  • Southpoint
  • Wake Forest–Wakefield
  • Wilson

EmergeOrtho is full of wonderful doctors! They make sure they go over every little thing and explain stuff so that you understand. I have 4 different doctors here and have been pleased with them all.

Michelle M

EMERGEORTHO PATIENT

They treat you with respect take the time to understand what your needs are and work toward that gold of fixing the problem. Very professional in everything they do I love going there for treatment can't say that about many healthcare systems. I recommend EmergeOrtho to everyone I see.

Ronnie W

EMERGEORTHO PATIENT

A New Level Of Orthopedic Care Has Emerged

As our patient, you will benefit from a full range of orthopedic services, specialties and technologies, including physical and hand therapy, advanced imaging services, and urgent care walk-in services providing immediate diagnosis and treatment for urgent orthopedic conditions.