News

What Is Osteoporosis?

As we age, so do our bones. Osteoporosis occurs when the bones become brittle due to lack of proper levels of calcium. It can affect men and women, but mostly women. When bones lose calcium (or density) they become weakened and can be easily fractured or broken.

The most common fractures occur in the hip, spine and the wrist. The hip and wrist injuries often result from falls or trying to break a fall. Untreated spinal fractures may cause you to lose height and hunch.

The problem with osteoporosis is that everyday mishaps can lead to dangerous fractures. A fall that might normally result in a bruise and nothing else may actually cause a fracture with a long recovery.

Some people are at greater risk for osteoporosis than others:

  • Small body frame
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Poor diet
  • Poor health
  • Menopause
  • Lack of vitamin D
  • Thyroid issues
  • Amenorrhea

If you have experienced painful bone fractures and have any of these risk factors, it may be time to see your physician.

Categories: newsletter