Osteoporosis: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Millions of postmenopausal women find themselves facing a diagnosis of osteoporosis, but what does that mean for their daily lives? About 30% of white postmenopausal women in the United States have osteoporosis, while 54% have osteopenia, a precursor to osteoporosis, according to Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center. But what exactly is osteoporosis, and why is it such a concern? In this article, experts will explore osteoporosis, its causes, risk factors, symptoms, treatments and prevention strategies. We’ll also clarify the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis, and explore exercises that can help strengthen your bones. What is osteoporosis? Osteoporosis, as defined by the U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), is a condition where the density and mass of bones decrease, and the structure and strength of bones change. This weakening of bones can raise the risk of broken bones. However, osteoporosis can also be defined by its silent nature. Typically, it develops without noticeable symptoms, and individuals may remain unaware of their condition until they experience a fracture. Osteoporosis is a primary cause of fractures in postmenopausal women and older men. It can affect any bones, but is most frequently seen in the hip, spine and wrist bones....