Osteoporosis is a disease of low bone mineral density and weakened bone structure that leads to musculoskeletal pain, loss of posture, and fractures of the spine, hip, and other bones.
Osteoporosis occurs most frequently in women after menopause.
It is the cause of most fractures in older people and is an important contributor to mortality, physical disability, and medical expense. While genetic predisposition, aging, and estrogen deficiency are the most common contributors, severe bone loss may also be caused by a wide variety of medical problems including rheumatoid arthritis and important drugs such as corticosteroids. In these people, the weakening of bone may occur in the younger years, setting the stage for premature fractures and disability. Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis is rapidly improving because of advances in early diagnosis using bone density measurement, improvements in treatment options, and higher public awareness. Rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disease.