Osteoporosis & Osteoporotic Fractures

Overview

Osteoporosis makes bones weak and brittle, so fragile that even little stressors like coughing or leaning over can break them. Hip, wrist, and spine fractures brought on by osteoporosis are the most frequent.

Bone is a living tissue that undergoes continuous deterioration and replacement.  Osteoporosis develops when the production of new bone is insufficient to counteract the loss of existing bone.

People of all races can get osteoporosis. The risk is greatest for white and Asian women, particularly older women who have passed menopause. Medication, a balanced diet, and weight bearing exercise can improve existing brittle bones or prevent bone loss.