Hackettstown – The Orthopedic Institute of New Jersey has expanded its services with the addition of the Orthopedic Institute of New Jersey Bone Health Center. The director of this division of the Practice is Dr. Jason Wu, Board Certified Rheumatologist. Dr. Wu explains the need for this component of the Practice by indicating that “bone loss can occur over many years.  The result of this may only manifest itself when an individual suffers a fracture or notices a loss in height. There are steps that can be taken to keep bones strong.  Our goal is to educate, diagnose and treat patients with brittle bones and to prevent fractures.” The Center utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach in treating patients, taking advantage of the Orthopedic, Pain Management, Spinal Care and Physical Therapy professionals at the Practice to best assist patients. The Services offered within the Center include:

• Bone Density Testing On Site
• Evaluation to Diagnose Osteoporosis
• Evaluation of Risk Factors that Can Increase Risk of Osteoporotic Fractures
• Discussion of Different Medical Treatments and Side Effects
• Suggesting and Monitoring Medical Therapy so it can be most efficient with least side effects.
• Nutritional Information and Vitamin Supplementation for Maximal Bone Health

  According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, millions of Americans – 52 million to be exact – have low bone density or osteoporosis. In fact, about one in two women and up to one in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. By 2020, half of all Americans over age 50 are expected to have low bone density or osteoporosis. There are no symptoms in the early stages of osteoporosis. Individuals who fall within the following categories may find the Center to be of particular value:

• Post Menopausal Women
• Any patient over the age of 50 with hip or vertebral fracture
• Patients with strong family history of osteoporosis and/or fragility fractures.
• Those who lack physical exercise, have experienced eating disorders or have vitamin deficiencies
• Those who smoke or consume an excessive amount of alcohol

For additional information about the Bone Health Center, contact The Orthopedic Institute of New Jersey, OrthopedicNJ.com or 908-684-3005.