Osteoporosis is the medical term for bone loss, in which the bones become porous, unstable and more prone to fractures. This chronic skeletal disease occurs almost exclusively in older people. Post-menopausal women are particularly at risk of developing osteoporosis.
Hormonal changes, especially a lack of oestrogen, calcium and vitamin D, are the main causes of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis often manifests itself in increased back pain, a reduction in height and greater susceptibility to bone fractures.
If osteoporosis is diagnosed, treatment should always include a combination of medication, dietary changes and targeted exercise and training. This can increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
More information on osteoporosis is available on the website gesundheit.gv.at