By Gardner Orthopedics | Fort Myers, FL

As men get older, it’s normal to slow down a bit — but that doesn’t mean you should accept fatigue, low libido, or muscle loss as your new reality. For many men over 45, the issue isn’t age — it’s low testosterone or hormone imbalance.

That’s where bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) comes in. At Gardner Orthopedics, we support men who want to feel stronger, sharper, and more energized by helping them ask the right questions before starting therapy.

“Hormone therapy can be a game-changer for men — when it’s done for the right reasons and managed correctly,” says Dr. Ron Gardner, board-certified orthopedic surgeon.

Here are the top questions to ask your doctor before beginning BHT — and how we approach them with patients in Fort Myers.

1. What Are Bioidentical Hormones, and How Are They Different?

Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. They differ from synthetic hormones, which may have a similar function but different molecular structure.

Key advantages:

  • Better compatibility with the body

  • Fewer reported side effects

  • Can be tailored to individual hormone levels

Ask your doctor: “Are the hormones you prescribe bioidentical and compounded for my specific needs?”

2. What Symptoms Might Improve with BHT?

Common symptoms of low testosterone or hormonal imbalance in men include:

  • Decreased energy and endurance

  • Loss of muscle mass

  • Increased belly fat

  • Low libido or erectile dysfunction

  • Mood changes or irritability

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Brain fog or poor concentration

Ask: “Which of my symptoms might respond to BHT — and how quickly?”

3. How Will You Measure My Hormone Levels?

Diagnosis should be based on lab testing, medical history, and symptoms. Testosterone levels fluctuate, so timing and repeat testing are often necessary.

We typically evaluate:

  • Total and free testosterone

  • Estradiol (E2)

  • DHEA

  • SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin)

  • PSA (prostate-specific antigen)

Ask: “Will you monitor other hormones and health markers, not just testosterone?”

4. What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Bioidentical hormone therapy is generally safe when supervised properly — but it’s not without risk. Potential side effects may include:

  • Acne or skin changes

  • Mood fluctuations

  • Fluid retention

  • Changes in red blood cell count

  • Prostate sensitivity

Ask: “How will you monitor for side effects, and how often will my labs be rechecked?”

5. How Is BHT Delivered?

Common delivery options include:

  • Injections (weekly or biweekly)

  • Topical gels or creams

  • Pellet implants (inserted under the skin every 3–6 months)

Each method has pros and cons related to absorption, convenience, and consistency.

Ask: “What method do you recommend for my lifestyle — and why?”

6. Will I Still Need to Focus on Nutrition, Sleep, and Exercise?

Yes. BHT is not a silver bullet. It works best when part of a comprehensive health strategy that includes:

  • Clean nutrition

  • Strength training

  • Proper sleep

  • Stress management

  • Supplement and IV support, when appropriate

We often pair hormone therapy with Activation Medical IVs to support cellular metabolism, recovery, and nutrient status — especially in men with high stress or inflammation levels.

Ask: “How will my lifestyle support or limit the effectiveness of BHT?”

7. What Happens If I Stop Therapy?

If BHT is stopped, testosterone levels will likely return to baseline. In some men, symptoms may return; in others, they may stabilize.

Ask: “What is the long-term plan, and how often will we reassess whether I should continue?”

Real Patient Insight

A Gardner Ortho Patient, a 60-year-old Fort Myers business owner, came in feeling run down and unfocused. After comprehensive lab testing and a review of his symptoms, he started on a supervised BHT protocol along with IV nutrient support. Within 90 days, he reported:

  • Better energy and focus

  • Reduced belly fat

  • Stronger workouts

  • More stable mood

“It didn’t turn me into a different person — it gave me back the version of me I missed,” he shared.

Talk to the Right Team

If you’re considering bioidentical hormone therapy, it’s essential to work with providers who understand the big picture — not just hormone levels in isolation. At Gardner Orthopedics, we partner with trusted providers in men’s health and endocrinology, and we help coordinate care through Platinum Physicals, lab evaluations, and integrative support options.

📞 Ready to explore your options? Call today to schedule a consultation or ask about a lab panel and men’s health evaluation.

About Gardner Orthopedics

Based in Fort Myers, Florida, Gardner Orthopedics offers orthopedic surgery, regenerative medicine, IV therapy, foot and ankle care, and advanced men’s health screening through our Platinum Physicals. Led by Dr. Ron Gardner, we help men regain their vitality, strength, and confidence through smarter, integrative care.

📍 3033 Winkler Ave. Ste. 100, Fort Myers, FL 33916
📞 Call: 1-239-277-7070
🌐 Visit: www.gardnerorthopedics.com

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