Disorder of the human skeletal system

Sample Solution

    Osteoporosis is a disorder of the skeletal system in which bones become weak and fragile due to a decrease in bone density.

This can occur as a result of hormonal changes, certain medications such as corticosteroids, and other health-related causes or due to age-related declines in calcium and vitamin D levels. Over time, this can lead to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine and wrists. Symptoms of osteoporosis may include back pain from fractured vertebrae or loss of height over time caused by collapsed vertebrae. Osteoporosis can also cause bones to become thin and brittle leading to deformities such as curved spine (kyphosis) or hunched shoulders (Dowager’s hump). Treating osteoporosis includes lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, getting regular exercise that includes weight bearing activities like walking or jogging on hard surfaces, increasing calcium intake either through diet or supplements along with regular doses of Vitamin D supplementation. Medications may also be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. It's important for people at risk for developing osteoporosis to talk with their doctor about ways they can reduce their risks factors such as alcohol use, low estrogen levels among women during menopause transition, malnutrition/poor nutrition habits, lack of weight bearing exercise etc., so steps taken accordingly. Image: Osteoporosis (Source: https://www.cdc.gov/bonehealth/images/osteo_blackwhite_600px_v2.jpg)