What is osteoporosis? (Introduction)

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones lose density and strength, so they break more easily. The word means "porous bone". Bone is living tissue that is constantly broken down and rebuilt. In osteoporosis, breakdown outpaces rebuilding, and the internal honeycomb of the bone becomes thin and weak.

Why it matters

It is often silent. Many people only find out after a fracture, most often of the wrist, hip or spine. Hip and spine fractures can lead to long-term pain, loss of height, reduced independence and, in older adults, serious complications.

Who is affected

It is more common in women, especially after menopause when oestrogen falls, but men get it too, usually later. Low calcium and vitamin D, little physical activity, smoking, alcohol, certain medicines and low body weight raise the risk.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda links bone health to Asthi Dhatu and describes bone loss as Asthi-kshaya or Asthi-saushirya, related to Vata aggravation and poor nourishment of tissues with age. This is an interpretive framework. Evidence for Ayurvedic treatments in osteoporosis is limited, and they should be used only as an adjunct to medical care.

What helps most

Weight-bearing exercise, enough calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking, fall prevention and, when needed, prescribed bone medicines.

See a doctor if you are over 50 with a fracture from a minor fall, or you are a woman past menopause with risk factors.

When to get help

Speak with your doctor or an orthopaedic, endocrinology or rheumatology clinic if you have had a fracture from a minor fall, lose height, or develop a stooped back. Checking bone health early, with a DEXA scan where advised, lets you start the right plan before a break happens.

Remember

Bone loss is common but often preventable and treatable. Early checks protect against fractures.