Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease of the bones. As the condition worsens, bone mass deteriorates and becomes fragile. When this occurs, bones are far more susceptible to fractures of all types. All of the body’s bones can suffer from osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis causes an average of 1.5 million fractures annually. Half of women and one quarter of men over age 50 are expected to experience an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetime. In the United States, 10 million people suffer from osteoporosis, with an additional 35 million suspected of having low-bone mass, a precursor to the disease. This is more than half of the U.S. population of people 50 years and older. The disease can occur at any age, though it is far more common after age 50.
Women are more susceptible to osteoporosis, especially following menopause. A family history of low bone mass or low levels of vitamin D are also risk factors. Men with low testosterone levels are also more at risk. Some methods of osteoporosis prevention which are also good habits for overall good health.
Unfortunately, osteoporosis rarely shows any symptoms. A bone fracture is often the first indication. By that time, bones may have become so brittle that seemingly ordinary strain or pressure can cause a fracture or collapse of the bone
Prevention & Treatment
For osteoporosis, we use prevention methods which are also good habits for overall health. These include eating a well-balanced diet with adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D, exercise, strength training and refraining from alcohol and tobacco. Most importantly, you should have regular checkups and tests for signs of osteoporosis. Bone densitometry, a painless procedure that is becoming more prevalent, is used to measure the degree of bone thinning. Most adults who have had a fracture should have a bone density measurement to see if they are at risk for developing more fractures. We routinely recommend a bone mineral density test for patients who are at increased risk. The test can be scheduled through our office.
Contact Us
Testimonials
I was impressed by Dr. Desai’s skills and how he treated me. My Dupuytren’s contracture had progressed. He saw me quickly, gave me several options and I chose needle aponeurotomy. About 45 minutes later I was on my way home with full range of motion in my hand. I would see
him again.
C.H.
I had lost the use of my thumb and could not write my name, get dressed, open things or do other tasks. After my surgery I had it all back, regaining full mobility of my thumb. I got excellent care. Dr. Desai and his staff are patient and considerate. He’s the best hand surgeon in this area.
S.A.
Before seeing Dr. Desai, I had terrible arthritic pain in my thumbs. I’m a nurse and I couldn’t even write or administer IVs. Pain kept me awake at night. After my arthoplasty, my pain is gone and I have full use of my thumbs. Great results, and I’m absolutely happy.
S.S.
Had basal bone arthroplasty, (trapezium removed). Recovery was exactly as predicted, almost full use of hand in less than 3 months. Dr. Desai answered my questions completely. He was very attentive to my concerns, fully explained options & what to expect.
D.W.
My husband has had 2 carpal tunnel releases, and I recently had thumb arthroplasty and ligament reconstruction, all performed by Dr Desai. Dr. Desai is a brilliant hand surgeon whom we continue to sing praises about. Dr. Desai is direct and soft spoken. I will recommend him to anyone who needs a hand surgeon.B.S.
I've worked in the medical field for the last 16 years, and when it comes to doctors, I've see the good, the bad and the ugly. I have never done a review for a doctor until now.I recently had a 4.3 x 2.3 cm lipoma removed from my right hand by Dr. Desai. Not only was the surgery a breeze, but the recovery time was a lot quicker than I thought it would be. I had virtually no pain after surgery. He did a great job suturing using a vessel loop technique that he learned from a plastic surgeon. Because of that, my incision is barely visible. On top of that, the staff and everyone involved were amazing! In my professional opinion, Dr. Desai is the best hand surgeon I know. He takes his job very seriously and yet maintains great bed-side manners that a lot of doctors lack. I would refer Dr. Desai to anyone I know. In fact, if anyone in my family needs to have hand surgery, they will be coming to VA to have it done. My family lives in MI and TN. I wouldn't let them go to anyone else. Thank you, Dr. Desai!You're the Best!
K.D.
