Osteoporosis Treatment – Specialists in Düsseldorf
Osteoporosis is a condition that begins insidiously but can have serious consequences. Many people live for years with progressive bone loss without realizing it – until the first fractures occur. As a specialized orthopaedic private practice in Düsseldorf, we know how important early and precise diagnostics are. We take your concerns seriously and accompany you on the path to stronger bones – with empathy, personalized care, and state-of-the-art technology such as bone density measurement.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is one of the most common widespread diseases – and yet it often remains undetected for a long time. It is a chronic skeletal disease in which bone substance diminishes and the bone structure becomes increasingly porous.
The consequence: Even minor stress can cause bone fractures. Women after menopause are particularly affected, but men and younger people with certain risk factors can also develop the disease. The earlier osteoporosis is detected, the better the course of the disease can be influenced.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
The disease causes few symptoms in its early stages. Many patients only seek medical help when a fracture occurs. Nevertheless, there are warning signs to watch for:
- Back pain – especially in the lumbar spine area
- Decrease in body height
- Rounded back (“dowager’s hump”) due to vertebral fractures
- Frequent bone fractures after minor falls
- Pain in the legs or fingers during exertion
Causes and Risk Factors
Osteoporosis can be triggered or promoted by many factors. A distinction is made between primary and secondary osteoporosis.
Primary Osteoporosis
This form primarily affects women after menopause and older people. In these individuals, the natural breakdown of bone substance is no longer compensated by new bone formation.
Secondary Osteoporosis
Secondary osteoporosis occurs as a result of other diseases or long-term medication treatment. These include conditions such as rheumatism, hyperthyroidism, or cortisone therapy.
- Hormonal changes (especially estrogen deficiency)
- Calcium and vitamin D deficiency
- Lack of physical activity
- Genetic predisposition
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Low body weight
- Certain medications (e.g., cortisone, antiepileptics)
Your Osteoporosis Specialists in NRW
At our practice in Düsseldorf-Golzheim, our doctors are always there for you and provide comprehensive, safe treatment for osteoporosis!
Dr. med. Dirk Pajonk
Orthopaedist & Sports Orthopaedist in Düsseldorf
Dr. med. Peter Buddenberg
Orthopaedist & Spine Specialist in Düsseldorf
Dr. med. Bachtiar Kutup
Orthopaedist & Trauma Surgeon in Düsseldorf
Expericences at our practice
Diagnostics & Early Detection: Bone Density Measurement via DEXA Scan
If there is suspicion of osteoporosis or if risk factors are present, early bone density measurement is crucial. At our osteoporosis center in Düsseldorf, we use DEXA Scan for this purpose. This is a highly precise, low-radiation procedure that represents the international gold standard.
During the examination, you lie on a table while the device measures bone density using two X-ray beams with different energy levels. The scan is usually performed on the lumbar spine, femoral neck, or forearm.
These areas are particularly susceptible to osteoporotic fractures. The procedure takes about 20 minutes, is painless, and requires no special preparation. Metallic objects should be removed.
How are the results interpreted?
The measurement results are displayed using the so-called T-score:
- T-score ≥ -1: normal bone density
- T-score between -1 and -2.5: osteopenia (precursor to osteoporosis)
- T-score ≤ -2.5: osteoporosis
This classification enables a reliable assessment of fracture risk. Upon request, we discuss the values with you immediately after the examination.
Your Benefits at Our Orthopaedic Practice
As a private orthopaedic practice in Düsseldorf, we offer you individual, patient-oriented care at a high medical standard:
Personal consultation & therapy planning
No time pressure, no mass processing
State-of-the-art diagnostics with DEXA scan
Specialist care by experienced osteoporosis specialists
Central location in Düsseldorf-Golzheim
We take time for you and your bone health. Book your appointment today – by phone, via our contact form, or conveniently online via Doctolib.
Therapy & Treatment for Osteoporosis
Every therapy begins with comprehensive diagnostics and consideration of your life circumstances. Our goal is to slow bone loss, relieve acute and chronic pain, and reduce the risk of fractures. According to current knowledge, osteoporosis is not curable. However, there are various options to limit the loss of bone substance.
Medications for Osteoporosis
Depending on the severity and individual risk factors, drug treatment may be necessary. So-called bisphosphonates, denosumab, or teriparatide are frequently used. These medications work either to preserve bone or to build bone. The osteoporosis injection may also be an option.
Nutrition for Osteoporosis
An adequate supply of calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health. We advise you on selecting suitable foods and clarify whether supplementary intake of preparations makes sense. Avoiding certain foods can also be part of the strategy – for example, phosphate-rich soft drinks.
Exercise and Physical Activity for Osteoporosis
Physical activity is a central component of osteoporosis therapy. We recommend targeted training to strengthen bones and muscles. Sports such as Nordic walking, light strength training, or yoga are the focus. There are also effective osteoporosis exercises for home.
How to Prevent Osteoporosis
Prevention is the best protection against bone loss. With a few simple measures, you can significantly reduce your risk:
- Calcium-rich diet (dairy products, green vegetables, mineral water)
- Adequate vitamin D intake (sunlight, supplements if necessary)
- Regular exercise – preferably weight-bearing activities
- Avoid nicotine and excessive alcohol
- Early bone density measurement in case of risk factors
We are happy to advise you on individual prevention and perform a DEXA scan for early detection upon request.
FAQ
When should I have an osteoporosis test done?
If you are over 50, have a family history of the condition, or frequently suffer bone fractures, a bone density measurement is advisable. Early detection is also important for chronic diseases or long-term cortisone use.
Wie läuft eine Knochendichtemessung genau ab?
The examination takes about 20 minutes and is completely painless. You lie relaxed on a table while the device measures bone density. No special preparation is necessary.
How often should bone density be measured?
This depends on the results of the first examination and your risk profile. Generally, every 1–2 years is sufficient; however, if values are abnormal or if ongoing therapy is in place, more frequent check-ups may be advisable.
Is the osteoporosis examination covered by private health insurance?
In most cases, yes. If you are unsure, we are happy to advise you on cost coverage or provide you with an individual itemized list of services to submit to your insurance company.
What is the life expectancy with osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis itself does not automatically shorten life expectancy – however, subsequent fractures, such as hip fractures, can pose significant health risks. Through early diagnostics and targeted therapy, this risk can be significantly reduced.
Is osteoporosis hereditary?
Yes, osteoporosis can be hereditary. Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of the disease. If close family members – especially parents or siblings – have osteoporosis or have suffered bone fractures at an early age, your personal risk of developing reduced bone density is also increased.
Online APPOINTMENTS WITH OUR ORTHOPEDIC DOCTORS IN DUSSELDORF
Please use our online form or Doctolib to schedule your appointment. This saves you time, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.