Osteoporosis literally means porous bones, and is a progressive disease that can cause serious injury. With osteoporosis, bones gradually lose their density to the point where they become brittle and break easily. The hips, spine, and wrist are common fracture zones (National Osteoporosis Foundation). Fractures in turn can cause deformity or severe, chronic pain (National Osteoporosis Foundation). The fractures caused by osteoporosis can be caused by even the slightest stress that would not affect a healthy bone.
Older women are at the highest risk for developing osteoporosis, and are about four times as likely as men for developing the disease (National Osteoporosis Foundation). Certain ethnic groups are at higher risk for the disease, with Caucasian and Asian women being at a higher risk than women of African decent (Shiel). Poor nutrition can contribute to osteoporosis.
Persons with osteoporosis often remain unaware that they have developed the condition until it is too late and they break a bone. However, bone density tests can alert persons at risk for developing osteoporosis whether or not they have the condition or how far the condition has progressed.
Preventative measures can help keep bones strong and healthy. Calcium, phosphorous, and Vitamin D absorption are keys to preventing osteoporosis as well as treating the condition to prevent injury. Cigarette smoking and heavy drinking may exacerbate osteoporosis, and refraining from smoking and drinking can also prevent the condition from developing. Some medications have been developed specifically to increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis from worsening. Treatments for osteoporosis include exercise, which bolsters muscle strength and takes stress off of bones. Vitamin supplementation and dietary habits may also help minimize bone density loss. Some medications and surgical procedures can also remedy bone loss.
Works Cited
National Osteoporosis Foundation. "Osteoporosis: A Debilitating Disease that can be Prevented and Treated." Retrieved April 25, 2009 from http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/index.htm
Shiel, W.C. "Osteoporosis." MedicineNet.com. Retrieved April 25, 2009 from http://www.medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/article.htm
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and are, therefore, more likely to break (NOF, 2004). Thus, the common perception that bones are inert structures, like wooden beams, is incorrect. For, a bone is actually a living tissue, which is constantly being remodeled. After age 35, however, on the average a little more bone is lost each year than is gained during this remodeling. Between 40 and 50,
Our semester plans gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to our entire library of resources —writing tools, guides, example essays, tutorials, class notes, and more.
Get Started Now