Bone Health

Your Optimal Bone Health

Your skeletal system is a hard-working, intricate arrangement of bones that allows your every movement. Your bone strength is measured as adequate bone mineral density (BMD) and proper bone microarchitecture. Having optimal bone strength helps you continue to move freely, avoid fractures and maintain quality of life.

Mercy's orthopedic experts believe everyone deserves the benefit of healthy bones. They work with you to address the factors that impact bone health, including genetics, nutrition, physical activity and hormonal changes.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that makes your bones thin, brittle and easy to break. It can be caused by loss of bone mass, a natural part of aging. Women who've gone though menopause are especially at risk, though men also develop osteoporosis. Mercy specialists can help slow bone loss and increase bone thickness. Learn more about osteoporosis, its diagnosis and treatment.

What is Osteoarthritis?

As we age, the cartilage that protects our joints breaks down. This can lead to bone-on-bone grinding, most often in the hips and sometimes in the knees, hands and spine.

If you find it's getting harder and more painful to move, it may be time to learn more about osteoarthritis. Mercy specialists are experienced and trained to help restore your flexibility, comfort and quality of life. 

Women's Bone Health

One in two women who've been through menopause will get osteoporosis and, as a result, a bone fracture. Menopause slows the production of estrogen, which is essential to maintaining bone density and strength. Mercy bone health experts can guide you to better bone health through new advances in treatment, as well as nutrition and healthy lifestyle changes. 

About Bone Density Testing

Your doctor may recommend bone density testing to check for conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia. Using a special type of x-ray called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the test measures how much calcium and other minerals are in your bones. Based on the results, your doctor can determine your risk of fractures and overall bone health. Ask your Mercy primary care doctor or specialist if it’s time you had a bone density test.