Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis The term Osteoporosis makes me think of older women bent over with a cane to keep their balance. Even though this is a common thought when this disease is mentioned, it can be detected in earlier ages and even in males. Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones and makes them more fragile and easier to fracture. If left untreated, Osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks with little or no effort. With no symptoms, osteoporosis is sometimes a disease that is hardly noticed until a fracture occurs. Because of this, it is often referred to as the “Silent Disease”. Studies show that it is commonly found in women over the age of 50. This is because women lose a great amount of bone mineral density after menopause.
Fractures are mostly found in the hip, spine and wrist. With that being said, this type of bone disease can cause ones inability to walk or even death. Fractures in the spine can cause deformity, back pain and height loss. Calcium is an important vitamin needed for our bones. It gives us the strength we need to do everyday activities. When there is not enough calcium in the bones it is easier for osteoporosis to be developed. Bone density, which is determined by the amount of calcium in our bones, plays an important role in osteoporosis. People with low bone density are more prone to developing the disease because their bones are not strong enough. Having a small frame, a family history of osteoporosis, low calcium intake within a lifetime, or different medications are some factors that are not controlled but contribute to the disease. Other things such as smoking, alcohol intake, or diet and exercise are things that can be controlled and put individuals at a lower risk of developing osteoporosis. Different diseases and disorders can also cause osteoporosis. Immobilization, such as being bedridden or mobile by wheelchair causes a loss of bone density. Exercise and proper nutrition throughout