Osteoporosis & Fragility Fractures
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become thinner, weaker, and more fragile over time, increasing the risk of fractures from even minor falls or routine activities. These “fragility fractures” most commonly affect the spine, hip, and wrist and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our team focuses on early detection, fracture prevention, and personalized treatment plans that support long-term bone strength and overall health.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Osteoporosis often progresses silently, meaning many people have no symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some early warning signs may prompt evaluation, including:
- Height loss or a stooped posture
- Sudden back pain from a vertebral compression fracture
- Weak grip strength
- Fractures from low-impact injuries, such as tripping or lifting a light object
During your first visit at The Medical Group of New Jersey, your provider will review your medical history, family history of fractures, diet, exercise habits, and any medications that may affect bone strength. A physical exam and risk assessment help determine whether further testing is needed.
Diagnosis & Risk Assessment
Once osteoporosis is suspected, a series of tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess fracture risk. These tests guide treatment choices and help track changes over time.
Diagnostic Tools May Include:
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan: Measures bone density at the spine and hip.
- X-rays: Identify fractures or vertebral compression.
- Blood tests: Evaluate calcium, vitamin D, thyroid levels, and markers of bone turnover.
Risk Factors Your Provider Will Review:
- Age 50 and older
- Menopause or hormonal changes
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Low body weight
- Long-term steroid use
- Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Certain medical conditions (thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, malabsorption)
Understanding these risks helps your care team tailor a plan that strengthens bone health and reduces the likelihood of future fractures.
Treatment & Management
After diagnosis, treatment focuses on preventing fractures, improving bone density, and addressing any current or past injuries. Your provider will recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medical therapies based on your bone density and overall health.
Lifestyle & Non-Medication Approaches:
Our clinical team will discuss the beneficial role of:
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
- Weight-bearing and resistance exercises
- Fall-prevention strategies at home
- Smoking cessation and reduced alcohol consumption
Medication Options:
Depending on your bone density results, your provider may recommend medications such as:
- Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate, risedronate) to slow bone loss
- Denosumab to reduce fracture risk1
- Anabolic therapies (e.g., teriparatide) to build new bone in severe cases
- Hormone-based treatments for postmenopausal women
Fragility Fracture Care:
If a fracture has occurred, treatment may include:
- Bracing or immobilization
- Pain management
- Vertebral augmentation procedures, when appropriate
- Physical therapy to improve strength and reduce future fall risk
Across all stages of care, The Medical Group of New Jersey emphasizes a comprehensive approach that supports both bone health and overall mobility.
1. Cummings, Steven R, et al. “Denosumab for Prevention of Fractures in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis.” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 361, no. 8, 2009, pp. 756–65.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
Because osteoporosis is a chronic condition, ongoing follow-up is essential. During these visits, your provider will:
- Review symptoms and mobility
- Repeat DEXA scans every 1–2 years
- Adjust medications based on bone density changes
- Reassess fall risk and lifestyle factors
- Ensure appropriate vitamin D and calcium levels
This continued monitoring helps prevent future fractures and supports long-term bone strength.