Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bone becomes weak. It is classified as :

• Secondary to

1. Injury and disuse : this is usually localised to the injured part

2. Hormone deficiency : common after menopause in females

3. Steroid intake : for asthma and allergic disorders

4. Dietary insufficiency : of minerals and proteins

5. Bowel disorders : leading to abnormal absorption

6. Endocrine disorders.

• Primary

When the cause is not known. This weakness leads to fracture at multiple areas like the spine, hip or wrist Identifications and quantification is done by X-rays of spine, hip and wrist or by newer methods called Bone densitometry studies.

Treatment consists of elimination of the causative factor and supplementation of calcium, vitamin D3 and proteins. In some selected cases, one may consider Hormone replacement therapy or treatment with diphosphonates, which reduce the bone absorption

• More Information on Osteoporosis & Bone Densitometry