Bone Health

"Everyone at every age should think about their bone health."
- NSHF Spine & Bone Health Task Force

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by the weakening and deterioration of the skeleton, which includes the spine. Having osteoporosis makes the bones more fragile and susceptible to fractures, which can cause compression fractures of the vertebrae, leading to back pain. Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it typically progresses without any noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs.

1 in 3
Female Patients

And 1 in 5 male patients aged 50-59 undergoing spine surgery have osteoporosis.

1.5 Million
Fractures

Fractures from osteoporosis occur most often in the spine and happen an estimated 1.5 million times a year

Increased Hospitalizations

Hospitalizations for fractures due to osteoporosis occur more frequently in women aged 55+ each year than breast cancer, heart attack, and stroke combined.

Women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and other bone health conditions. Caucasian and Asian women are at the highest risk.

You should also get your bone health assessed by your health care professional (using either a risk assessment tool or bone mineral density test) if you have two or more of the following risk factors:

  • Have lost 1½ inches or more in height
  • Have a curved or hunched upper back
  • Have a family history of osteoporosis
  • Are over 50 and have suffered a bone break
  • Have reached menopause
  • Are a smoker
  • Consume more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day
  • Are a male with low testosterone
  • Are petite (under 125 pounds)
  • Take oral corticosteroids on a daily basis
  • Have suffered from an eating disorder

 

Find Out if You are at Risk for Osteoporosis.

In collaboration with the International Osteoporosis Foundation, we invite you to learn more about your risk factors for osteoporosis. By clicking below, you will be redirected to a trusted partner’s website where you can check your Osteoporosis risk.

Osteoporosis Risk Check

Learn

Osteoporosis can be both prevented and treated! The National Spine Health Foundation has many resources available to help you learn more about how to maintain strong, healthy bones.

Resources on Osteoporosis

NSHF has developed a number of tools and resources about the connection between spine and bone health and what you can do to diagnose and manage osteoporosis.

Find Out More
Find Out More

What Questions Do You Have About Bone Health?

We’re here to help! Reach out to the NSHF team and have your bone health questions answered.

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Share

Sharing what you’ve learned about bone health can help others reduce their risk.

 

Test Your Osteoporosis Risk

Find out if you’re at risk for osteoporosis and other bone conditions.

Find Out More