Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because you can't feel your bones weakening. For many, the first sign is a broken bone. This condition causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them highly susceptible to fractures from minor falls or even simple actions like sneezing. Understanding the risks and seeking an osteoporosis specialist doctor for diagnosis and bone loss treatment is key to protecting your long-term health and mobility.
Bay Area Rheumatology’s bone density specialist providers are committed to screening for, managing and treating osteoporosis. We offer cutting-edge, compassionate care for patients throughout the Tampa/St. Petersburg metro area from our convenient locations in Clearwater and Oldsmar. As a leading rheumatology practice, we not only provide the best treatment for osteoporosis but also serve as your advocate, ensuring you receive the care you need.
If you're looking for an osteoporosis doctor near you, we invite you to request an appointment with our expert team today.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, or when the structure and strength of bone change. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures. While it can affect anyone, it is most common in older women, especially post-menopause, due to hormonal changes.
The early stages of bone loss often have no signs. The symptoms of osteoporosis typically don't appear until a bone is fractured. Signs of more advanced osteoporosis can include:
Because of its silent nature, screening for osteoporosis is crucial, especially for at-risk populations.
The goal of osteoporosis treatment is to slow or stop bone loss, prevent fractures, and manage any pain. Your osteoporosis specialist doctor at Bay Area Rheumatology will develop a personalized plan based on your fracture risk, which is determined by your bone density and other health factors.
Treatment plans often include:
Other options include hormone-related therapies and newer biologic agents that help rebuild bone. Our providers stay at the forefront of clinical research to offer the most advanced medical therapies.
The standard for diagnosing osteoporosis is a bone mineral density (BMD) test, most commonly a central dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA scan. This is a quick, painless, and non-invasive test that uses low-dose X-rays to measure the density of bones, usually in the spine, hip, and sometimes the forearm.
Your results are given as a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult.
Your rheumatologist will use your T-score, along with other risk factors, to assess your likelihood of fracture and determine the best treatment for osteoporosis for you.
When searching for an osteoporosis specialist near you, you need a provider with deep expertise and a commitment to patient-centered care. The rheumatologists at Bay Area Rheumatology are nationally recognized leaders in their field. They are board-certified, hold positions at national organizations, and contribute to medical education and peer-reviewed journals.
Our practice is built on a foundation of compassionate advocacy. We understand that navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. Our team works tirelessly to get prior authorizations approved and fight on your behalf with insurance companies to ensure you have access to the osteoporosis medication and care you need. With convenient locations in Clearwater and Oldsmar, we provide accessible, expert bone loss treatment for patients from Palm Harbor, Trinity, and across the Tampa Bay region.
Osteopenia is considered a midway point to osteoporosis. It means your bone density is lower than the normal peak density, but not yet low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Think of it as a warning sign. Not everyone with osteopenia will develop osteoporosis, but it does mean you have a greater risk for the disease and for fractures. A diagnosis of osteopenia is an opportunity to make lifestyle changes and work with your doctor on a prevention strategy to protect your bones for the future.
Protecting your bone health starts with a conversation. Bay Area Rheumatology makes it simple to get started with an expert bone density specialist. We offer convenient online scheduling and are dedicated to providing quick access to appointments, so you can get the answers and care you need without a long wait. Our team is ready to welcome you and partner with you to create a plan for stronger bones and a healthier future. We look forward to seeing you.
Postmenopausal women are at the highest risk. Other significant risk factors include being over the age of 50, having a family history of osteoporosis, a small body frame, certain medical conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis), and long-term use of steroid medications.
While you cannot fully reverse bone loss, you can take significant steps to stop further weakening and, in some cases, improve bone density. The primary goals of osteoporosis treatment are to stabilize bone mass and prevent fractures through medication, diet, and exercise.
Like all medications, osteoporosis medication can have side effects. These vary depending on the type of drug. Your osteoporosis doctor will discuss the benefits and potential risks of any prescribed treatment with you to determine the best and safest option for your individual health profile.
Many insurance plans allow you to see a specialist without a referral from your primary care physician, but it is always best to confirm with your insurance provider. Our office staff is happy to help you understand your benefits and schedule your visit.