The next time you have an appointment with your doctor or other healthcare provider, you may want to ask the following questions:

Am I at risk for osteoporosis?

Certain people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. Factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and broken bones (also called fractures) are called “risk factors.” You have no control over some of these risk factors such as your sex, age, race/ethnicity and family history. There are other risk factors you can change such as diet, exercise, smoking and drinking too much alcohol. Many of the choices you make each day can affect your bones. By making healthier choices you can help reduce your risk of osteoporosis as well as the broken bones it can cause.

Am I getting enough calcium and vitamin D?

Calcium is an essential nutrient because it provides the material for building new bone. If you don’t get enough calcium from food, you should consider taking a calcium supplement. The amount of supplement you need depends on how much calcium you get every day from the foods you eat. It’s also important not to take more calcium supplements than you need, because that can be harmful too. Your body also needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. Your skin makes vitamin D when it is exposed to the sun. Vitamin D is also available in a few foods. Many people, however, do not get enough vitamin D. Ask your healthcare provider if you should take a vitamin D supplement.

What kind of exercise can help me build strong bones?

Your bones get stronger and denser when you make them work. And “work” for bones means handling impact, the weight of your body or more resistance. Ask your healthcare provider which types of exercises are appropriate for you and how often you should do them. Ask if there are any activities you shouldn’t do. If you have low bone density or osteoporosis, ask your healthcare provider about seeing a physical therapist (PT) to develop an exercise program that is safe and appropriate for you. You may need to get a referral to see a PT. If you make an appointment, make sure the PT works with patients who have osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis, be careful to avoid activities that require:

• Slumped, head-forward posture
• Twisting the spine to a point of strain
• Twisting the trunk and bending forward when doing activities such as coughing, sneezing, vacuuming or lifting
• Heavy lifting and movements that increase your chance of falling

Could any of the medicines I take cause bone loss?

Some medicines can cause bone loss, especially if taken in high doses or for a long time. One risky type for bones are steroid medicines. Many people need to take these medicines for conditions like arthritis or asthma.

It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of any prescription or over-the-counter medicines you take and about how they may affect your bones. Do not stop any treatment or change the dose of your medicines unless your healthcare provider says it’s safe to do so. If you need to take a medicine that causes bone loss, work with your healthcare provider to take the lowest possible dose to control your symptoms.

Do I have any conditions that could cause bone loss?

There are many health problems that can harm your bones and increase your risk of osteoporosis. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions that can cause bone loss. If you learn that you have a condition that could lead to osteoporosis, ask your healthcare provider what steps you can take to protect your bones.

Do I need a bone density test?

Many tests are used to evaluate bones. The bone density test is the only one that can diagnose osteoporosis. Your bone density, along with other risk factors, can predict your chance of breaking a bone and can help your healthcare provider decide if you need treatment. Experts recommend a specific type of bone density test of the hip and/or spine to diagnose osteoporosis. This test is called a central DXA which stands for dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Ask your healthcare provider if you need a bone density test.

How can I prevent falls?

Each year about one-third of all persons over the age of 65 will fall. One way you can prevent broken bones is by preventing falls. The following tips can help:

• Have your vision and hearing checked often.
• Wear supportive shoes with rubber soles and low heels. Don’t walk in socks or slip-on slippers, especially on wood or tile floors.
• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if any medicines you take could cause you to feel dizzy or lose your balance.
• Keep your floors free of clutter. Remove loose wires, cords and throw rugs.
• Keep halls, stairs and entryways well-lit.
• Use night-lights in bedroom and bathroom.
• Use grab bars and a nonskid rubber mat in the shower or bathtub.
• Use nonskid rubber mats in the kitchen near the sink and stove.
• Do balance training exercises.

Additional Related Topics

Factors that Put You At Risk - information about medicines and medical conditions that could lead to bone loss.

Having a Bone Density Test - information about bone density testing, and understanding what your results mean.

Medicines that May Cause Bone Loss - information about medicines that may cause bone loss.

Diseases and Conditions that May Cause Bone Loss - information medical conditions that may bone loss.

Moving Safely - information about moving safely to protect your bones and your spine

Vitamin D and Bone Health - vitamin D recommendations. 

Calcium and Bone Health - calcium recommendations.

Exercise for Healthy Bones - examples of exercises that are good for your bones.

Preventing Falls Inside and Outside the Home - recommendations for preventing falls