Osteoporosis is simply the loss of bony tissues, resulting in bones that are brittle and liable to fracture, infections, injury and synoviatis can cause osteoporosis of the localised adjacent bones
Also, it may be termed a condition where bone density (the amount of bones tissue) is reduced becasue deposition does not keep pace with resorbtion.
Even when the bone is adequately mineralised, it is fragile and microscopicall abnormal, with loss of internal structures.
Peak bone mass occurs around 35years (menopausal age) and then gradually declines in both sex.
Lowered oestrogen levels after the menopause are simpky associated with a period of accelerated bone loss in women.
Thereafter, bone density in women is less than in men for any given age.
A range of environmental factors and diseases are also assoviated with decrease bone mass and are implicated in development of Osteoporosis.
Some can be influenced by the changes in lifestyle.
Exercise and calcium intake are thought to be imoortant during chikdhood and adolesent in determining bone mass of an individual, and the risk of osteoporosis in later life.
As bone mass decreases, susceptibility to fracture increases.
Also note that Immobility cause reversible osteoporosis.
The extent of which corresponds to the length of the extent of immobility.
Example is During prolonged periods of unconsciouness, osteoporotic changes is uniform throughout the skeleton, but immobilization of a particular joint following fracture leads to local osteoporotic changes in involved or affected bones
Common Features Of Osteoporosis
- Skeletal Deformity- Gradual loss of hieght with age by compression of vertebrae.
- Bone pains
3)Fracture- Especially of the hip (neck of the femor) wrisy and vertebrae.
Causes of Decreased Bone Mass
- Family History
- Lack of exercise
- Immobility
- Diet (Low calcium)
- Smoking
- Excess alchohol intake
- Early Menopause
