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Which Kind of Doctor Do I Go to for Osteoporosis?

At one time, only older adults got osteoporosis. Today, you can get it at an earlier age. Females make up 80 percent of those diagnosed according to Pamela Stuppy, a registered dietician and expert on the condition. Catching it early can make intervention more successful. If you think you have this condition or want to be proactive to prevent it, you need to seek medical guidance.

  1. Get a Bone Density Scan

    • Go to your regular doctor, health care provider or a radiologist for a bone density scan. This is called bone mineral density testing, densitometry or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA). These tests measure bone loss in specific areas or for the entire body.

    Find a Doctor Specalizing in Osteoporosis

    • If you don't have a doctor or yours doesn't specialize in osteoporosis, find one who does. You can reach out to your closest hospital (preferably one associated with a university), and ask for referrals. You can go online to search for doctors through a specific insurance company or in general at http://www.healthcentral.com/osteoporosis/doctor-hospital.html.

    Get Nutrition Advice

    • Talk to your regular doctor or go to a registered dietician for advice on nutrition and supplements. How you eat is incredibly important for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. You need to eat calcium-dense foods like low-fat dairy products and almonds. You may need calcium and vitamin D supplementation, as well.

    Find Out About Medications

    • Check with all doctors that have prescribed you medication. Certain medications like prednisone can remove calcium from your body; sometimes quite rapidly. So find out if any of the prescriptions you take affect osteoporosis or calcium levels and how to compensate accordingly.

    Do Weight-Bearing Exercise

    • Ask for a referral to an exercise physiologist, personal trainer or rehabilitation specialist to learn about appropriate exercises. Weight-bearing exercise (walking, biking, strength training, dancing and more) is what prevents bone loss and can build strong bones.

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