Osteoporosis means "condition of porous bones" and causes weakened bone strength and density. The condition also leads to a lack of minerals required for optimal bones strength. The term may define lack of bone density, mass and strength. It's a progressive disease process, meaning it will likely get worse over time. An increase in thinning bones may contribute to more instability and falls in the elderly, leading to more fractures, many of them so serious they are debilitating.
Osteoporosis is more common in elderly women than men. The reason for this is after menopause, a woman's body slows in the production of estrogen, which protects against steady bone loss.
Osteoporosis by itself does not cause any symptoms, and in most cases, a person will not know they have osteoporosis until the condition is diagnosed by their doctor. Increased fractures resulting from falls may indicate weak or porous bones associated with osteoporosis.
Your doctor may use a number of methods to diagnose osteoporosis, including:
Your doctor's first approach to the treatment of osteoporosis may include:
Surgery for osteoporosis is not meant as a preventive or curative measure. Surgery is indicated when bones or joints are damaged by the condition and further inhibit mobility or range of motion or cause pain or decreased ability to get around.