Osteoporosis

A condition in which bones become weak and brittle.

Overview

Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle. The body constantly absorbs and replaces bone tissue. With osteoporosis, new bone creation doesn't keep up with old bone removal.

Symptoms

There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. Once bones are weakened by osteoporosis, symptoms may include back pain, stooped posture, loss of height over time and bones that break easily.

Treatments

Medications, healthy diet, and weight-bearing exercise can help prevent bone loss or strengthen already weak bones.