More than twenty five per cent of women over the age of 60 have osteoporosis. Oestrogen helps protect the female body against calcium loss. When oestrogen levels decrease at menopause, a sharp decline in the thickness and strength of bones can follow. The greatest loss of calcium occurs in the first five years after menopause. Back ache may be the first sign of osteoporosis, with some women developing spontaneous 'crush' fractures in the spine.
Osteoporosis can cause shortening of the spine or a humped back.
Women with osteoporosis are more prone to bone fractures, particularly of the wrist, spine, hip, upper arm and pelvis, following even minor trauma. Once fractured, weakened bones take a long time to mend and may cause chronic pain. Early signs of bone loss can be detected by a Bone Densitometry test. In Australia, the cost of the test is claimable from Medicare under certain circumstances. Check with your doctor for more information on these circumstances.