Osteoporosis: Preventing the Deterioration of Bone

L. Giangregorio, PhD, Lyndhurst Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, ON.
A. Papaioannou, MD, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON.
J.D. Adachi, MD, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON.

Osteoporosis is characterized by compromised bone strength, predisposing a person to an increased risk of fracture. The wrist, hip, and spine are the most common sites for fractures associated with osteoporosis. The economic and human costs of osteoporosis-related fractures are considerable. Although it is often considered a woman’s disease, osteoporosis is a significant source of morbidity and mortality in men. Available pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis include bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, and hormone replacement therapy. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as nutritional counselling, exercise, and fall prevention, should also be considered in a fracture prevention plan.
Key words: osteoporosis, fragility fracture, bone, skeleton, bone density.