Osteoporosis
Definition
Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of bones, leading to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. This condition is more common in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, and can result in significant disability and complications.
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Endocrinology
Our nationally and internationally recognized physicians are experts in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormones. They also specialize in treating metabolic disease, or any of the diseases or disorders that disrupt normal metabolism, the process of converting food to energy. We are a national referral center for 3,000 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as other metabolic conditions. We help patients transition seamlessly from pediatric to adult care. We emphasize a personalized approach to care, tailoring the treatment program to each patient’s needs. Our 24/7 consult service provides expert consultations to patients with complex conditions, spanning the full spectrum from disorders of the thyroid to electrolyte abnormalities and hormonal conditions. Specialized care is offered in the following areas: Bone Center Diabetes Center Endocrine Neoplasia Program (thyroid/adrenal) Pituitary Program A major referral center for 3,000 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as other metabolic conditions, including obesity and lipid disorders. Services include insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring, and access to clinical trials. An inpatient diabetes management service that is available 24/7 to assist clinicians in achieving optimal glucose control in hospitalized patients in both ICU and non-ICU settings A national referral site for patients with thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer; and adrenal diseases, including adrenal masses, Cushing syndrome, hyperaldosteronism, and pheochromocytoma Multidisciplinary care provided to patients with pituitary diseases, including tumors, prolactinomas, Cushing syndrome, acromegaly, hypopituitarism, and hypophysitis. Special services include intraoperative MRI and intraoperative hormonal testing to ensure complete removal of tumor. National and international experts on metabolic bone disease, including osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, Paget disease, vitamin D disorders, and genetic conditions involving the skeleton. Challenging cases are reviewed at a monthly multidisciplinary bone conference. Bone density measurements by the Yale Densitometry Service that are taken on a new Hologenic DXA scannerPediatric Metabolic Bone Program
We specialize in treating complex disorders of the skeleton and metabolism in children, including X-Linked Hypophosphatemia, a genetic disorder that affects one in 20,000 people.Bone Center
Bone is a living tissue. It is not simply an 'erector set' that keeps us upright; it must renew itself throughout life. Bone health at any age requires a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet with plenty of calcium, and regular exercise. These factors are important in childhood and adolescence to achieve the strongest bones possible and for maintaining bone health in adulthood. Our goal is to help our patients build and keep healthy bones. We specialize in the prevention, treatment, and comprehensive care for adults and children with bone diseases and disturbances in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, a mineral that helps build bones. Our highly skilled team cares for patients through a multidisciplinary approach. Specialists and caregivers include endocrinologists, orthopaedists, physical therapists, nurses, and nutritionists. Bone Center physicians are all faculty at Yale School of Medicine with nationally recognized expertise in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of bone disorders. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory aids in the treatment of the most difficult disorders. Although normal levels of sex hormones are important throughout life, the decision about hormone replacement therapy is especially important during menopause in women. Hormones are not right for everyone, and other treatments to protect bones are now available. Our services include: Osteoporosis Screening: Osteoporosis, a common bone disease, is an area of particular expertise at the Bone Center. Measuring bone density is recommended to determine a patient’s risk for this condition. We offer a screening program and provide the patient’s doctor with a complete report that includes information about individual risk factors for bone loss. Physical Therapy: We have a close working relationship with experienced physical therapists in New Haven who are specifically trained in treating patients with skeletal disorders. The goal of physical therapy is to improve strength, maintain mobility, and preserve independence. Dietary Consultation: Our staff includes a dietitian with 20 years of experience in helping patients choose the correct diet for bone health. She is available for individual consultation.