Osteoporosis is a disease where bones become weaker and lose density over time. The word “osteo-porosis” means “porous bones” and is generally not noticeable until a fracture occurs. Parts of the body that are more likely to become fractured are the hip, wrist, and spine. Around 80% of Americans diagnosed with Osteoporosis are women and this may be due to the fact their bones are less dense and hormonal changes that contribute to the decrease of bone mass.

There is no definite cause to this disease, but factors like lack of exercise, cigarettes, old age, and menopause in women are believed to play a role. It is not easy to detect the presence of Osteoporosis as early symptoms are subtle. Symptoms related to later stages of the condition are much more noticeable. Some people do not notice a fracture depending on the location. It is likely they become aware of symptoms after a serious fracture with higher levels of pain. Symptoms may include the following:

1. Loss of height

People diagnosed with Osteoporosis may have compression fractures that result in the loss of height. Bones become weak and thin to the point of collapsing, thus the compression fracture.

2. Fracture from a slip or fall

One of the most common signs of Osteoporosis is a bone fracture from relatively minor movements or falls. Stepping down from a sidewalk, jumping up and down, and even coughing or sneezing can lead to a fracture due to the fragile bones.

3. Back and neck pain

Compression fractures may cause nerve pain in the spinal column. When this happens, nerves are pinched and this can lead to minor or severe pain.

4. Stooped posture

The compression of the vertebrae lining the spine sometimes causes the upper back to curve forward, which may involve back/neck pain and breathing issues due to increased pressure on the chest.

5. Unexplained bone or joint pain

When the body is lacking sufficient bone mass, then the chances of injury are higher. Bones need appropriate strength to handle body weight. There are many more possible causes of bone and joint pain, but Osteoporosis can be one of them.

6. Low-energy fractures

Most people with a broken bone experienced some type of major accident or event that took significant force to cause the injury. A car accident, fall down the stairs, or sports injury are some common reasons for broken bones. When someone fractures a part of their body with minimal force, then Osteoporosis is oftentimes considered to be the cause.