Osteoporosis

Conditions

<img alt=">

Stronger bones mean a stronger you.

Osteoporosis weakens your bones, making them thin, brittle and more likely to break. It often develops quietly over time — sometimes without symptoms — until a fracture happens. But with the right care, you can protect your bones and keep them strong.

At the Connecticut Orthopaedic Institute, our specialists understand how osteoporosis affects your health and lifestyle. We’ll work with you to detect it early, prevent fractures and create a personalized plan to support your long-term bone health.

What increases your risk?

Osteoporosis can affect anyone, but certain risk factors can make it more likely — and knowing them can help you take steps to protect your bones.

Because osteoporosis often develops without warning, bone density testing is recommended for women 65 and older — or sooner if you have other risk factors.

  • Age: Osteoporosis is more common after age 60.
  • Gender: Women are at higher risk.
  • Body type: Slender or small-framed people are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
  • Family history: A parent or sibling with osteoporosis increases your risk.
  • Background: People of European and Asian descent are at higher risk.
  • Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, lack of weight-bearing exercise, or not getting enough calcium and vitamin D can all weaken bones.

How you can protect your bones

Osteoporosis can’t be reversed – but it can be managed. With the right treatment plan, you can strengthen your bones, prevent fractures and slow the condition from progressing.

Medical Treatments

  • Medications: Certain medications can reduce bone loss and strengthen bone tissue.
  • Supplements: Adequate calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health.

Lifestyle Habits

  • Exercise: Weight-bearing activities like walking, jogging, dancing or strength training help keep bones strong.
  • Nutrition: Foods rich in calcium (milk, yogurt, cheese) and vitamin D (eggs, fatty fish, fortified cereal) support bone health.
  • Healthy choices: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can slow bone loss.

How to prevent falls

If you have osteoporosis, preventing falls is critical. With the right plan, you can lower your risk of fractures and continue living a happy, healthy life. Try these easy changes to make your home a little safer.

  • Keep rooms well lit.
  • Add handrails to stairs.
  • Remove tripping hazards like clutter or throw rugs.

Ready for the next step?

Call now to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.