Osteoporosis Specialist

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is the "loss of BONE minerals."

One should not to confuse this with arthritis, the disease of the "JOINTS."

A common myth is that this is a disease of the elderly! Although the incidence increases with advancing age, women start losing bony tissue as early as late their twenties

Understanding Osteoporosis

With osteoporosis, your body’s production of new bone cell is so slow that it can’t keep up with the loss of old cells, making your bones porous and fragile.

Osteoporosis can affect both men and women, but women are at higher risk, especially after menopause, due to a drop in estrogen levels. Other risk factors include age (older adults are more susceptible), family history, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, use of steroids, specific hormonal imbalances (such as thyroid and Parathyroid diseases), and low calcium intake.

Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis

• Back Pain (often due to spinal fractures or collapsed vertebrae)
• Loss of Height or a "stooped" posture due to spine fractures.
• Fractures from minimal trauma, such as falling from standing height.

Dangers and Complications

The primary danger of osteoporosis is an increased risk of bone fractures. Common fractures occur in the spine, hips, and wrists, and even minor falls or everyday activities can result in broken bones. Spinal Fractures can lead to a loss of height, back pain, and a hunched posture, which may affect mobility and quality of life.

Hip Fractures are particularly dangerous and can result in long-term disability, loss of independence, and in severe cases, death, especially among older adults.

How to Take Care of Osteoporosis

Prevention and Early Detection

A healthy diet that is adequate in calcium and vitamin D intake is crucial for maintaining bone health. Besides dairy products, leafy greens such as kale and broccoli and certain fish such as salmon are just some excellent sources of calcium. Vitamin D in turn will help calcium absorption. During your visit, Dr. Kermani will determine the dosage of vitamin D if there is a need indicated.

Exercise is also impactful in taking care of bones. Weight-bearing and muscle- strengthening exercises (e.g., walking, jogging, resistance training) are essential for bone health. These activities help stimulate bone formation and improve balance, reducing fall risk. Because each person has individualized ability to engage in these exercises, Dr. Kermani will indicate for you the best course of action for undertaking physical activity.

Smoking and heavy drinking can reduce bone density, so it’s essential to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

Medical Treatment

Dr. Kermani will discuss the options for medications and vitamins.

Bone Density Test (DEXA scan) is a proven, simple imaging test that measures bone density and helps assess the risk of fractures. It's recommended for women over 65, men over 70, or younger individuals with risk factors.

If you’re at risk for osteoporosis and its potentially debilitating consequences—such as hip or spine fractures—Dr. Kermani can suggest lifestyle modifications, bone-strengthening supplements, and medications.

If you or a loved one has any concerns about Osteoporosis, please call our office at (702)435-1995 and one of our friendly staff will schedule an appointment for you to see Dr. Kermani at our office in the Southern Highlands and Las Vegas area.