Osteoporosis

A condition where bones become weakened to the point where fractures / breaks occur with low amount of trauma like a trivial fall. Diagnosis is made through a DEXA (bone density) scan which must be referred by your GP.

The body constantly absorbs and replaces bone tissue. With osteoporosis the laying down of new bone doesn’t keep up with the removal of old bone resulting in weakening of bones.

You may have a genetic predisposition for developing osteoporosis. Menopause or changing hormone levels with some drug treatments can lead to bone density loss.

You may be aware of family members who have the same condition but not necessarily.

Osteopenia is the term used to describe bone loss which is less severe but which, if left untreated, may lead to osteoporosis.