Osteoporosis Treatment
Houston, TX
Osteoporosis is often called the 'silent disease' — bones weaken for years without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Our endocrinologists in Houston provide early detection through DEXA scanning, accurate fracture risk assessment, and the most advanced bone-preserving and bone-building treatments available.
Quick Facts
Who Is at Risk for Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone can't keep up with bone loss. As endocrinologists, we are uniquely positioned to identify and treat the hormonal and metabolic causes of bone loss — which go well beyond just low calcium intake.
Common endocrine causes include low estrogen (menopause), low testosterone (hypogonadism), hyperparathyroidism, Vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disorders, Cushing's syndrome, and diabetes. Dr. Basa, Dr. Kim, and Dr. Varughese all have extensive experience managing osteoporosis in the context of these conditions.
Post-Menopausal Women
Estrogen loss accelerates bone resorption after menopause
Men Over 50
Testosterone decline and aging reduce bone mineral density
Long-Term Steroids
Prednisone and other corticosteroids significantly impair bone
Endocrine Disorders
Hyperparathyroidism, Cushing's, and thyroid disease affect bone
Family History
Parental history of hip fracture increases risk significantly
Prior Fragility Fracture
A previous low-trauma fracture is the strongest predictor of future fracture
Our Approach to Osteoporosis Care
DEXA Bone Density Scan & FRAX Assessment
We order DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scanning and use the FRAX fracture risk calculator to determine your 10-year risk of hip and major osteoporotic fracture, which guides treatment decisions.
Identify Secondary Causes
We perform a targeted lab evaluation including Vitamin D, calcium, PTH, thyroid function, testosterone (in men), and markers of bone turnover. Treating underlying endocrine causes is often the most impactful intervention.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Treatment is individualized based on fracture risk, age, sex, and underlying conditions. Options range from calcium/Vitamin D optimization and bisphosphonates (alendronate, zoledronic acid) to anabolic bone-building agents like teriparatide and romosozumab for high-risk patients.
Long-Term Monitoring & Drug Holidays
We monitor bone density and bone turnover markers over time, manage bisphosphonate drug holidays appropriately, and adjust therapy as your fracture risk profile changes over the years.
Physicians Who Treat Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Education Resources
Osteoporosis FAQ
At what age should I get a bone density test?
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends DEXA screening for all women age 65 and older, and for younger post-menopausal women with risk factors. Men with risk factors (age 70+, steroid use, low testosterone, fragility fracture) should also be screened. Ask your doctor if you qualify for an earlier screening.
How long do I need to take osteoporosis medication?
Bisphosphonate therapy is typically reassessed at 3–5 years. Low-risk patients may take a "drug holiday," while high-risk patients continue or switch to other agents. This is an individual decision made with your endocrinologist based on your evolving fracture risk.
Can osteoporosis be reversed?
Osteoporosis cannot be fully reversed, but bone density can be meaningfully improved — especially with anabolic agents like teriparatide or romosozumab. Fracture risk can be dramatically reduced with proper treatment, sometimes by 50–70%.
Is calcium supplementation enough to prevent osteoporosis?
Calcium and Vitamin D are foundational but insufficient on their own for those with established osteoporosis or high fracture risk. Prescription medications are often needed. Interestingly, excess calcium supplementation may increase cardiovascular risk, which is another reason professional guidance matters.