What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis, meaning literally porous bones, is often referred to as the 'silent disease' because the bone loss is gradual and usually occurs without visible symptoms until the disease is advanced.
4 Often the first time many sufferers discover they have it is when they experience a fracture. Fractures are a common consequence of the bones becoming weaker.
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Adequate calcium intake helps to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. As the bones become weaker, fractures may occur simply under the burden of supporting the body. Even minor falls can cause serious fracture, especially to the spine, hip or wrist. Fractures of the spinal vertebrae may result in persistent back pain, curvature of the spine and loss of height. |