Osteoporosis Affects Bone Function

The human skeletal system is made up of 206 bones whose main function is to provide support and structure to the body and protect the vital internal organs. They also help in movement and function. As people age, they start to deteriorate and one of the more common diseases that hits them is osteoporosis, which usually leads to surgery such as artificial hip replacements. Consumer dissatisfaction against DePuy Orthopaedic has stirred several lawsuits, although it doesn’t guarantee future recovery despite Depuy settlements.

Osteoporosis-related conditions are not easily discovered. It would take years and years before it shows symptoms -- until such time when a fracture on the bone happens.

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones loses its density. The bone's strength decreases and becomes fragile, making it harder for it to do its role in the body.

Bones are made up of protein, collagen and calcium—all the components that make a bone strong. They are naturally strong as they carry the body's weight or even trauma from injuries. But once osteoporosis hits, they are weakened and will be fractured even at the slightest provocation.

In layman's term, the bone, which is supposed to be strong, becomes porous, just like a sponge.

Bone mass, also known as bone density, starts to lower down when a person is around 35 years old. This is also more common in women, especially those who are in their menopausal stage.

Even if it does not show any early signs, there are measures to know whether one has osteoporosis. A routine x-ray will show that one has it because the bones will appear thinner and lighter. This, however, is not very accurate. It may be able to detect osteoporosis when the bone has already deteriorated.

The more precise way, which doctors highly recommend, is the so-called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, which is otherwise known as DXA. It measures bone density in the hip, spine and forearm in less than 20 minutes. Doctors also recommend that women, who are in their post-menstrual phrase should get tested for osteoporosis, especially those who are 65 years old as they stand to have a higher risk of getting osteoporosis. On the other hand, to know more about issues concerning DePuy, one may visit The DePuy Recall News Center for more information.

URL REFERENCES:

medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/article.htm#what_is_osteoporosis

livestrong.com/article/80192-bones-important-body/

albertaboneandjoint.com/health_osteo.asp

medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2501

medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/article.htm#what_is_osteoporosis

medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/page5.htm#how_is_osteoporosis_diagnosed

medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/page6.htm