Osteoporosis
Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone density and bone mass decrease, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that increases the risk of fractures. Osteoporosis is often called a 'silent disease' because bone loss occurs without symptoms until a fracture happens. Fractures from osteoporosis most commonly occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Rheumatologists manage osteoporosis because many autoimmune conditions and their treatments can accelerate bone loss.
Common Symptoms
- No symptoms in early stages (silent disease)
- Gradual loss of height over time
- Stooped or hunched posture
- Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
- Bones that break much more easily than expected
- Hip fracture from a minor fall
- Wrist fracture from a fall on outstretched hand
Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.
How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density test called a DEXA scan, which is painless and takes about 15 minutes. Results are reported as a T-score: normal is above -1.0, osteopenia (low bone mass) is between -1.0 and -2.5, and osteoporosis is -2.5 or below. Blood tests may be done to check calcium, vitamin D, and markers of bone turnover. Dr. Forouzesh evaluates fracture risk using the FRAX tool and identifies underlying causes of bone loss.
Treatment Options
Bisphosphonates
First-line medications (alendronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid) that slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.
Denosumab
An injectable medication given every six months that blocks bone breakdown and increases bone density.
Bone-Building Medications
Teriparatide or abaloparatide injections that stimulate new bone formation for patients with severe osteoporosis.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Essential supplements to support bone health. Most adults need 1000-1200mg of calcium and 1000-2000 IU of vitamin D daily.
Weight-Bearing Exercise
Regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises to strengthen bones, improve balance, and reduce fall risk.
Fall Prevention
Home safety modifications, balance exercises, and medication review to minimize the risk of falls and fractures.
Key Statistics
54 Million
Americans have low bone density or osteoporosis
Source: National Osteoporosis Foundation
1 in 2
Women over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis
Source: NIH/NIAMS
1 in 4
Men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis
Source: National Osteoporosis Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Expert Care?
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.