Your Osteoporosis Care Team

Here’s a guide to who’s who on your medical care team — because understanding who does what can make the whole process feel much easier.

• Primary Care Practitioner Called PCPs, they generally serve as the first point of contact for people seeking medical care. They may have been the doctor who first diagnosed you with osteoporosis or identified weakened bones on a scan. Going forward, your PCP may want to monitor your bone mineral density with regular tests, such as a DEXA scan, as well as start treatment with medication and recommend lifestyle therapies. They may also refer you to a specialist for additional care.

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• Endocrinologist These doctors can help manage bone loss caused by hormonal imbalances, such as low estrogen in postmenopausal women or low testosterone in men, or by metabolic disorders, and they can prescribe hormone-based treatments and medication for osteoporosis to reduce the risk of a fracture.
• Rheumatologist These specialists have expertise in evaluating bone health, including osteoporosis. Rheumatologists are particularly skilled in managing care for people with a high risk of bone fracture or osteoporosis related to another underlying disease, and they can prescribe osteoporosis treatments to reduce the risk of fractures.

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• Orthopedic Surgeon An orthopedic surgeon becomes part of the team only if a fracture occurs. They specialize in the surgical management of bone conditions, including treating fractures that result from osteoporosis. During the postsurgical period, orthopedic surgeons work with your rehabilitation team to help you recover from fractures and the related surgery.

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• Pharmacist Osteoporosis often requires medication. In that case, a pharmacist can help fill your prescriptions and educate you about the medication or supplements you’re taking. They can also answer any questions about their use. Pharmacists can be more accessible than other healthcare providers, especially if you need a quick response. If you use the same pharmacy for all of your prescriptions, the pharmacist can keep track of them and alert you to any drug interactions.

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• Physical Therapist A physical therapist can develop a fall-prevention and strength program that can help you manage osteoporosis and prevent bone-loss-related injuries. The exercises are designed to improve balance, strength, and mobility.

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• Nutritionist or Dietitian A nutritionist or dietitian can design a personalized, healthy diet plan for you — one with plenty of nutrients to maximize bone health, which helps reduce the risk of fracture.
• Personal Trainer Exercise is very important for bone health. A personal trainer who specializes in bone health or osteoporosis can create a safe exercise program that’s tailored to your needs. These plans usually combine weight-bearing and balance exercises, which help strengthen your bones, prevent falls, and reduce fracture risks.

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• Smoking Cessation Specialist Since smoking is a risk factor for osteoporosis — and because it can be difficult to quit — you may want to work with a specialist.

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It’s not uncommon to feel some anxiety after receiving a diagnosis of osteoporosis, especially if you’re worried about falling or breaking a bone, or if you’ve already fallen or had a fracture. Plus, you may have to make significant changes to your daily life to avoid an injury, which can be a big adjustment.

• Osteoporosis Support Group These groups provide a safe space to share your feelings with others. Through a support group, you can meet people like you and ask them questions about osteoporosis and bone health. You can find in-person groups through your provider or hospital, or find a group online if nothing is in your area. To find virtual groups, check out the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation online community, MyOsteoTeam's social network and Mayo Clinic Connect's discussion board.
• Counselor or Therapist A mental health professional can help you manage the emotional impact of osteoporosis.
• Social Worker Social workers are involved in all areas of healthcare, so if you suffered a fracture and were hospitalized, for instance, someone can connect you with available resources for mental, financial, and medical assistance. Some social workers also do mental health counseling.

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• Multiple doctors and mental health professionals can help you manage osteoporosis.
• This team can include a range of specialists such as a primary care doctor, endocrinologist, rheumatologist, pharmacist, and physical therapist.
• The primary care doctor typically is the first point of contact and usually remains an essential part of the team, even after a diagnosis.