Bone Health Clinic for Patients in Decatur and Hartselle, AL

The Bone Health Clinic at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine is tailored to the needs of patients with osteoporosis in the Decatur and Hartselle, Alabama, areas. Led by Director Rebecca McWhirter, CRNP, the Bone Health Clinic takes a personalized approach to care, providing the tools patients need to maintain long-term health and manage related conditions. Learn more about osteoporosis and what to expect as a patient with this condition at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

Understanding Osteoporosis

As confirmed by the Mayo Clinic, osteoporosis occurs when bone mass and mineral density decrease. Because bone is living tissue, it is broken down and then replaced by the human body. Osteoporosis develops when the body cannot replace the bone tissue as rapidly as it is breaking down. This medical condition leads to decreased bone strength, resulting in a variety of injuries, such as fractures in the wrist, hip, and spine.

Although bone fractures are the most common complications of osteoporosis, this disease can lead to a host of other medical concerns, such as:

• Height loss
• Poor posture
• Pain in highly affected areas

From dietary and lifestyle choices to genetics, the risk factors for this condition vary by patient. Seeking medical care is the first step toward receiving the necessary treatment.

About Clinic Director Rebecca McWhirter, CRNP

Bone Health Clinic Director Rebecca McWhirter, CRNP has always had a connection with the community she helps treat. McWhirter is a 2007 graduate of Austin High School and completed her master’s degree in nursing at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. After earning her degree, McWhirter worked in the cardiothoracic department at Huntsville Hospital until joining the practice in 2017.

At DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, McWhirter has practiced as a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a primary clinical experience focused on osteoporosis health. She oversees the clinic with the goal of providing quality care to patients in the community where she was raised.

“New and improved treatments are now available for osteoporosis. Recent data shows that half of all women over 50 will suffer a fracture related to osteoporosis. At DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, we are able to assess for diagnosis, treat this condition if needed and provide education to keep bones healthy.” – Rebecca McWhirter, CRNP

Visiting the Bone Health Clinic

As with any other specialty at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, patients can expect high-quality care and compassion at the Bone Health Clinic. During a patient’s initial appointment, they will receive a thorough medical history review detailing all possible risk factors of osteoporosis. Next, a bone density screening will be scheduled at Decatur Morgan Hospital, along with lab work, to get a better understanding of the patient’s condition. Once the providers have gathered all the necessary information, a follow-up visit will be scheduled to go over all test results and recommended treatment options.

Schedule an Appointment at the Bone Health Clinic

With a focus on treating patients with osteoporosis and other conditions in Decatur and Hartselle, AL, the Bone Health Clinic at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine offers personalized, comprehensive care. For more information about the services we provide, schedule an appointment online or contact us today.