An Introduction to the Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disorder which results in human body losing too much bone. The body makes little to no bone or both. Osteoporosis results in weaker bones and they make break upon falling or getting injured.

The word osteoporosis means porous bone. The structure of the healthy bones is different, more like a honeycomb. The structure of bones affected by osteoporosis looks hollow with holes and spaces within that original honeycomb structure. The osteoporosis disease results in the bones losing density or mass with abnormal tissue structure.

If a person becomes older than 50 years and they have a broken bone, they must consult a doctor.

Some Key Facts On Osteoporosis

These are some important points which patients need to keep in mind.

The Threat of Osteoporosis in America

Osteoporosis is a very common threat faced by orthopedic patients in America. An estimated 54 million people across the US are at the risk of developing this problem because of low bone mass. Around one in two women and one in four men above the age of 50 will have a broken bone due to this disease.

Seriousness of the Problem

The breaking of a bone is a serious matter. Older patients face more issues when they have a broken bone problem. The osteoporosis problem is not only responsible for permanent pain, but it also contributes to losing of height in patients. Sometimes, osteoporosis affects the vertebrae or bones of the spine leading to a hunched posture.

Medical Costs of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis results in severe medical problems and added health expenses. An estimated $19 billion is needed annually in the US to fix the bone related problems. Medical experts believe that osteoporosis-related problem will increase further by the year 2025 resulting in over $25.3 billion in costs and over three million fractures.

Osteoporosis A Silent Disease

Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease as the patient does not feel the weakening of their bones. The first sign of osteoporosis is breaking if a bone. Sometimes, when the patient notices reduced height or their upper back is curved forward, they come to realize the problem.

Underlying Causes of Osteoporosis

There are many possible causes of osteoporosis. Here is a list of the reasons behind it.