Women's bones begin to thin rapidly, putting them at risk for hip fractures and crushed vertebrae. About 20 million women in the United States have osteoporosis. For every five women who develop the condition, only one man is expected to get it. It is impossible to feel bones thinning. There is no pain, no weakness, no visible deterioration.
Osteoporosis gives no warning.
Often, the diagnosis is made only after a bone breaks. The most vulnerable parts of the skeleton are the spine and the hip. The spinal column is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae that form the chief supporting structure of the human body. When these bones deteriorate, they can crumble, the vertebrae becoming compressed like corrugated cardboard boxes stomped flat. Beyond appearance, the constant back pain can inhibit mobility and generally make life miserable.