Low bone mass, a depletion of the calcium, phosphorus and other minerals in your bones, can increase your risk of a fracture. Also known as osteopenia, low bone mass is a precursor to osteoporosis, a more severe weakening and thinning of bones.

Low bone mass and osteoporosis typically don’t have any symptoms, meaning some people learn of their condition after a hip fracture, spinal compression or other broken bone.

A painless medical procedure that screens for risk of low bone mass and osteoporosis allows you to get treatment, if necessary, to help restore bone density and help prevent a fall or fracture.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends bone measurement testing to prevent fractures in women over age 65. Screening is also recommended after menopause for those under age 65 if recommended by their medical provider. The USPSTF has determined that there isn’t enough evidence to warrant screening in men.

The risk of an osteoporosis-related fracture (fragility fracture or osteoporotic fracture) is greater after menopause, when estrogen levels decrease. Estrogen plays an important role in women’s bone health by affecting the breakdown of bone tissue and new bone growth. 

We perform a state-of-the art bone density test using the bone densitometry DEXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) scanner, available at multiple Norton Healthcare facilities. Similar to an X-ray, this test is painless and noninvasive. It’s performed by technologists specifically trained in bone density scanning.

You don’t need to make any special preparations for a DEXA scan. You’ll lie flat on your back and will need to stay still to prevent blurring the image. A scanning arm will pass over your body, typically the pelvis and lower spine. The scanner will send low-dose X-rays through your body to see how much isn’t absorbed by tissue such as bone. The scan takes less than a half hour, and you’ll go home afterward.

The test gives a good indication of bone strength and is part of determining whether treatment is necessary. A bone density test won’t necessarily predict whether you’ll experience a broken bone. Some people with low bone density never have a fracture, while others with healthy bones might experience a broken bone. Other factors, including whether you’ve broken a bone in a fall, can influence your risk of another fracture.

Low bone mass or osteoporosis treatment typically involves medication to slow bone density loss. Bisphosphonates and hormone therapy, to increase estrogen levels, are two common approaches. Exercise — walking, mild weightlifting, elastic bands — that puts weight on your bones or provides resistance helps encourage bone growth. Your provider also may recommend supplements such as calcium, an important mineral in bone development, and vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium.

What To Expect From the Norton Orthopedic Institute Bone Health Program

The Norton Orthopedic Institute Bone Health Program, with offices in Louisville and Southern Indiana, treats bone conditions and provides preventive care for osteoporosis.

The program offers education and support around lifestyle changes that promote strong bones. The goal is to slow bone breakdown, reduce your risk of falling and reduce fracture risk.

Your first bone health appointment will be scheduled with one of our experienced health care providers who specializes in bone health and the treatment of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Your visit will consist of: 

• A comprehensive review of past medical history/risk factors 
• Review of previous bone density scans and bloodwork evaluation for secondary causes of your bone condition
• Nutrition, calcium and vitamin D recommendations and education on proper use 
• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, and referral to physical therapy if appropriate 
• Identifying fall risks and instruction on ways to reduce fall risk 
• Precautions for reducing your risk for spine fractures 
• Medication options, if appropriate

Care That’s Focused on You

• Minimally invasive procedures can have you home quickly with less pain and faster recovery.
• Sophisticated pain management aims to keep you comfortable and safe.
• We have a deep commitment to getting you moving again and managing your pain so you can keep up with your physical therapy.
• With 30 orthopedic locations in Louisville, Southern Indiana and surrounding communities, we have specialists near you.
• Communicate with your provider, manage appointments, refill prescriptions and more, anytime, from a computer or mobile device with a free Norton MyChart account.

Why Choose Norton Orthopedic Institute

More patients choose Norton Orthopedic Institute for hip or knee replacements and other orthopedic procedures than any other health care provider in Louisville or Southern Indiana.

• About 50 providers, including board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons, offer care at twelve locations in Louisville and Southern Indiana.
• Same-day appointments often are available.
• Norton Healthcare is the first health system in the nation to be recognized as an Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence by DNV.
• Our hip replacement specialists are pioneers in minimally invasive surgeries focused on minimizing pain and recovery time.
• Robotic-assisted surgical techniques improve precision for a more natural-feeling knee replacement to get you moving again.
• Educational programs help patients prepare for joint replacement surgery and recovery.
• Medicare, Medicaid and most major commercial insurance plans are accepted.
• Your free Norton MyChart account allows you to communicate with your provider, manage appointments, get alerted if an earlier appointment becomes available, refill prescriptions and more from a mobile device or computer.
• KORT Physical Therapy offers a variety of services, in partnership with Norton Healthcare, at convenient locations throughout Louisville and Southern Indiana. Find a location near you or request an appointment today.