This Month, Let’s Talk About Bone Health

We’ve got a bone to pick with neglecting your skeleton.

May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, which makes it the perfect time to give your bones a little extra love and attention. At OrthoIllinois, our expert rheumatology team is here to help you keep your bones strong, healthy, and ready to carry you through every stage of life.

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t think much about our bone health until something goes wrong. Osteoporosis is more common than you think. Approximately 54 million Americans live with osteoporosis or low bone mass. No matter what your age, your bones play a vital role in your overall health. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 70s, taking care of your skeletal wellbeing now can help you stay mobile for years to come.

What Exactly Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis literally means “porous bones” and happens when your body breaks down old bone faster than it can build new bone. This leads to bones becoming thinner and weaker bones which are more likely to fracture.

It’s often called the “silent disease” because it doesn’t usually show any symptoms until a fracture happens.

As we age, our bones naturally lose some density, especially after 50. In fact, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 will experience a fracture related to osteoporosis.

“Prevention is key,” says Dr. Matas Orentas, a rheumatologist at OrthoIllinois. “The goal is to catch bone loss early before a fracture ever happens. The good news is, there are simple screenings and everyday lifestyle changes that can make a big difference.”

Preventing Bone Loss Starts Early

By your early 30s, your bones have typically hit their peak strength. After that, the key to prevention is to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

• Calcium and vitamin D are your bones’ best friends. They help keep your bones strong and support healthy bone remodeling.
• Exercise is vital as Weight-bearing and resistance exercises like walking, strength training, and even yoga help stimulate bone growth and improve balance to prevent falls.
• Lifestyle choices play a role, too. Avoid smoking, keep alcohol in moderation, and stay on top of your health screenings.

Staying consistent with these habits can help lower your risk for osteoporosis and keep your bones in top shape well into your later years.

When to Talk to Your Provider About Bone Health

• Not sure if you should be concerned? It’s worth having a conversation with your provider if:
• You’ve lost 1.5 inches or more in height
• You’ve had a fracture from a minor injury
• You’ve taken corticosteroids long-term
• You’ve experienced a drop in hormone levels (like estrogen or testosterone)

These could be signs of early bone loss or red flags that it’s time for a screening.

How OrthoIllinois Can Help

At OrthoIllinois, our board-certified rheumatologists specialize in bone health and osteoporosis care. We offer DEXA scans, full assessments, and personalized care plans built on the latest research and national guidelines.

Whether you’re dealing with a new diagnosis or just want to get ahead of any potential issues, we’re here to help you feel informed and supported every step of the way. The more you know now, the better choices you can make for your future.

If it’s been a while since you’ve thought about your bone health, there’s no better time than May to start the conversation. You don’t need to wait for a fracture to take action, and your bones will thank you.

Dr. Matas Orentas, DO