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Osteoporosis
Moderate
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone strength and increased susceptibility to fractures. Bone becomes less dense and its internal structure may deteriorate, making fractures more likely even after relatively minor falls or injuries. Common fracture sites include the hip, spine, and wrist. Osteoporosis can develop without symptoms for many years and may first become apparent when a fracture occurs. Early identification of increased fracture risk can help guide preventive measures and treatment.
Body System
Bones & Joints
When to Seek Medical Attention
Osteoporosis often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs and generally requires planned medical assessment and prevention. Seek medical care after a suspected fracture or significant new bone pain. Urgent evaluation is appropriate for severe sudden back pain, inability to bear weight, or symptoms suggesting a major fracture or spinal complication.
Symptoms
2
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone strength and increased susceptibility to fractures. Bone becomes less dense and its internal structure may deteriorate, making fractures more likely even after relatively minor falls or injuries. Common fracture sites include the hip, spine, and wrist. Osteoporosis can develop without symptoms for many years and may first become apparent when a fracture occurs. Early identification of increased fracture risk can help guide preventive measures and treatment.
Symptoms 2
Muscle Cramps
Muscle Pain
Causes 3
Osteoporosis develops when bone breakdown occurs faster than new bone formation or when the amount and quality of newly formed bone are insufficient to maintain normal strength. Aging and hormonal changes contribute to bone loss, particularly after menopause. Other contributors include inadequate calcium or vitamin D, low physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, prolonged corticosteroid treatment, and medical conditions that interfere with bone metabolism. Genetic factors also influence peak bone mass and later fracture risk.
Hormonal Imbalance
Sedentary Lifestyle
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors include increasing age, menopause and other states of reduced estrogen, a family history of osteoporosis or fragility fractures, low body weight, inadequate calcium or vitamin D, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged use of medicines such as corticosteroids. Certain endocrine, gastrointestinal, kidney, liver, and inflammatory disorders can also increase risk. Previous fragility fracture is an important indicator of future fracture risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Osteoporosis is commonly assessed using bone mineral density measurement with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, commonly called a DXA or DEXA scan. The results are interpreted together with age, sex, fracture history, and other clinical risk factors. Blood and urine tests may be used to identify medical conditions that contribute to bone loss. Vertebral imaging may be considered when a spinal fracture is suspected or when clinical risk factors indicate a possibility of previously unrecognized fractures.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Bone health can be supported through adequate calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activity, avoidance of smoking, and limiting excessive alcohol consumption
Maintaining appropriate nutrition and body weight is important, particularly during periods of rapid bone loss
People at increased risk should discuss fracture-risk assessment with a healthcare professional
Measures to reduce falls, such as improving balance and addressing hazards at home, are especially important for older adults
Prevention Guidance
Bone health can be supported through adequate calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activity, avoidance of smoking, and limiting excessive alcohol consumption. Maintaining appropriate nutrition and body weight is important, particularly during periods of rapid bone loss. People at increased risk should discuss fracture-risk assessment with a healthcare professional. Measures to reduce falls, such as improving balance and addressing hazards at home, are especially important for older adults.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Calcium-rich Foods
Support bone strength
Vitamin D Foods
Support calcium absorption
Protein-rich Foods
Support bone health
Foods to Avoid
Excess Salt
May affect bone health
Soft Drinks
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A disease that weakens bones and increases fracture risk.
Older adults and postmenopausal women are at higher risk.
Often no symptoms until a fracture occurs.
Yes, weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones.
Healthy lifestyle and adequate calcium help reduce risk.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.