Hip pads are often used to try and help prevent fractures from occurring due to a fall. An increase in daily physical activity may help increase bone density, leading to increased stability and muscle strength, while immobilization has been found to decrease bone mass. People who suffer osteoporosis tend to be lean, weigh less and have less muscle bulk. A deficiency of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D is associated with age-related osteoporosis. The body s acid-base balance also regulates bone loss.
Men also have a higher bone density than women.
Hormones in the body control osteoblasts and osteoclasts activity. This may eventually lead to vertebral crush fractures from mid-thorax downwards. When clinical features do appear pain has an acute onset and does not radiate to the limbs. However, it may be aggravated on standing or walking and local tenderness may be felt which gradually begins to subside within a week. However, pain may be felt anywhere for up to 3 months or longer.