Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease of bones that leads to an increased risk of fracture . In osteoporosis, the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced, bone microarchitecture deteriorates, and the amount and variety of proteins in bone is altered. The disease may be classified as primary type one, primary type two, or secondary. The form of osteoporosis most common in women after menopause is referred to as primary type one or postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Osteoporotic Fractures
Image shows compression fractures of the lumbar spine.
Primary type two osteoporosis or senile osteoporosis occurs after age 75 and is seen in both females and males at a ratio of two to one. Finally, secondary osteoporosis may arise at any age and affect men and women equally. This form of osteoporosis results from chronic predisposing medical problems or disease, or prolonged use of medications such as glucocorticoids. Osteoporosis affects 55% of Americans aged 50 and above. Of these, approximately 80% are women.
Symptoms
Osteoporosis itself has no symptoms; its main consequence is the increased risk of weakened bones and consequent fractures. Osteoporotic fractures are those that occur in situations where healthy people would not normally break a bone. Physical deformation can occur secondary to compromised bone densities. One example is Hyperkyphosis, colloquially called a "dowager's hump", which refers to an anteriorly concave, curvature of the thoracic region of the spine . Fractures resulting from osteoporosis are regarded as fragility fractures. Typical fragility fractures occur in the vertebral column, rib, hip, and wrist. The underlying mechanism in all cases of osteoporosis is an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation.
Woman with Osteoporosis
Hyperkyphosis, colloquially called a "dowager's hump,, refers to an anteriorly concave, curvature of the thoracic region of the spine.
Treatment
Osteoporosis risks can be reduced with lifestyle changes and sometimes medication. In people with osteoporosis, treatment may involve both. Lifestyle change includes diet and exercise, and preventing falls. Medication includes calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates, and several others. Fall-prevention advice includes exercise to tone deambulatory muscles and proprioception-improvement (body orientation sense) exercises. Equilibrium therapies may be included. Exercise with its anabolic effect may, at the same time, stop or reverse osteoporosis.