Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Published : October 20, 2014 12:09 PM IST
October 20 is the World Osteoporosis Day
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes the bones brittle and susceptible to fractures. Earlier, osteoporosis was considered a normal part of ageing. But today with more than 8.9 million fractures caused every year due to osteoporosis, it can no longer be taken lightly and termed an age-dependant condition.
Organised by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), the World Osteoporosis Day is observed every year to raise awareness about the condition and help those suffering from it. Societies in various countries from all over the world organise campaigns to increase awareness about the condition. This year, the IOF urges everyone to wear white and embrace better health to mark the day. (Read: World Osteoporosis Day: Cyclothon organised in Gurgaon to create awareness)
Symptoms of osteoporosis that one should look out for:
Back Pain: Back pain in osteoporosis is usually caused by fractures of the spine and is of very painful nature. This is because the fractured or collapsed vertebrae of the back prick the nerves spreading out from the spinal cord in a radial manner. The symptoms that are reported as a result of this range from tenderness in the back region to excruciating pain that may subside within a week. The pain may worsen after performing any physical activity that puts pressure on the affected area and may remain for around 3 months. (Read: Osteoporosis: What you ought to know)
Bone fracture: It is one of the most general symptoms of fragile bone caused by osteoporosis. Usually a person gets to know that he is suffering from osteoporosis only after he has suffered a fracture in vertebrae (back bone), hip, forearm, etc; when sufficient bone mass is lost. These fractures may occur frequently if the affected area suffers any trauma from lifting, falling from standing posture, bending, etc.
Stooped posture: In some cases, fractures of the spinal region caused by osteoporosis result in a stooped posture of the upper back leading to loss of height. Medically termed kyphosis or dowager s hump (in severe cases), this condition is usually painless but the loss of height could be upto 6 inches due to drooping. It can cause pain in the back or the neck region and can also affect breathing. (Read: World Osteoporosis Day: Having too much fluoride could increases your risk of fractures)
Image Source: Getty Images
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