The primary symptom of osteoporosis is fractures. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and easily broken. Osteoporotic fractures can result from a fall, the lifting of a heavy object, or a sudden twisting motion. Sometimes an activity that is not considered stressful or dangerous, such as bending over to pick up a newspaper, sneezing, turning a key in a lock, or receiving an affectionate hug can result in a fractured vertebra, broken wrist, or cracked rib.
Osteoporosis leads to 1.5 million fractures each year. Vertebral fractures can cause the spine to collapse and lead to a loss of height and stooped posture. The back curvature is called kyphosis. More than 300,000 hip fractures occur every year because of osteoporosis.
Last reviewed on 12/12/2006
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