Osteoporosis
Also known as: Weak Bones, Brittle Bones
Category: MusculoskeletalICD-10: M81
Osteoporosis is thinning of bones that makes them fragile and likely to break, especially after menopause.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms until a fracture
- Back pain
- Loss of height
- Stooped posture
Causes
- Loss of bone density with age
Risk factors
- Women after menopause
- Low calcium and vitamin D
- Steroid use
- Smoking
Complications
- Hip and spine fractures
Treatment overview
Calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise and bone-strengthening medicines.
Prevention
- Calcium and vitamin D
- Exercise
- Avoid smoking
When to see a doctor
Women over 50 should discuss bone density testing.
Medicines used
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis?
Often no symptoms until a fracture, Back pain, Loss of height, Stooped posture
What causes Osteoporosis?
Loss of bone density with age
How is Osteoporosis treated?
Calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise and bone-strengthening medicines.
How can Osteoporosis be prevented?
Calcium and vitamin D, Exercise, Avoid smoking
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.