Stronger Together: How Specialists Work Together to Improve Bone Health for Women and Men

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Spine Talks, we  explore the vital topic of osteoporosis — a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures — with two world-class experts from complementary fields: Dr. Robert Adler, an endocrinologist from Virginia Commonwealth University and the Richmond VA Center who has spent more than 30 years studying osteoporosis in women and men, and Dr. Paul Anderson, an orthopedic spine surgeon from the University of Wisconsin who leads bone health programs aimed at preventing fractures and improving surgical outcomes, and co-chairs our Task Force.Together, they uncover what most people don’t realize: bones are living, changing organs that constantly remodel throughout life. The doctors discuss:How bone health changes over time and why osteoporosis is often silent until a fracture occursSimple, preventive steps — nutrition, vitamin D, calcium, and weight-bearing exerciseDiagnostic tools like the DEXA scan, and who should be screenedThe intersection of spine surgery and bone health — why bone optimization matters before surgeryOsteoporosis in men, a frequently overlooked population with higher mortality after fracturesModern treatments, including antiresorptive and anabolic medications, their safety, effectiveness, and how they restore bone strengthThe episode emphasizes that osteoporosis is preventable and treatable, with the right combination of lifestyle, medical care, and awareness. Both doctors encourage patients to be proactive advocates for their bone health and start conversations with their physicians about screening and treatment options.Support the show Tune in to learn about the future of spinal health!