Medical Encyclopaedia › Osteoporosis (short definition)
In brief: Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease in which bone mass and bone structure decrease. The bones become fragile, so that even minor strain or falls can lead to fractures, especially of the vertebrae, hip and wrist.
Causes and risk factors
Bone mass decreases with age; in women, the drop in oestrogen after the menopause accelerates this process. Other risk factors are fractures in the family, underweight, lack of exercise, smoking, high alcohol consumption, prolonged corticosteroid treatment, certain hormonal disorders, rheumatoid arthritis and medicines such as aromatase inhibitors.
Symptoms
Osteoporosis causes no symptoms for a long time. It is often only noticed when a bone breaks. Vertebral fractures can cause sudden back pain, a rounded back and a loss of height.
Diagnosis
The most important examination is bone density measurement by DXA, which provides a T-score. For treatment decisions, the individual risk of fracture over the next few years is now estimated, taking into account age, sex and other risk factors in addition to bone density. Laboratory tests help to rule out other causes.
Prevention
Bones stay stronger with regular weight-bearing exercise and strength training, sufficient calcium from food, a good vitamin D supply, not smoking and little alcohol. Fall prevention through balance training, good lighting and removing tripping hazards further reduces the risk of fracture.
Treatment
If the risk of fracture is increased, medicines are used, most commonly bisphosphonates. Other options are denosumab and, at very high risk, bone-building agents such as teriparatide or romosozumab. Which treatment is suitable and how long it lasts is decided by a doctor. Denosumab must not simply be stopped, because vertebral fractures can then occur more frequently.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Bone density measurement, Osteopenia, Fracture, Calcium, Vitamin D, Menopause, Fall prevention, Sarcopenia, Corticosteroids
Further reading on Medizin Aktuell
Sources
- Dachverband Osteologie (DVO): Leitlinie Prophylaxe, Diagnostik und Therapie der Osteoporose, AWMF-Register 183-001
- IQWiG: gesundheitsinformation.de – Gesundheitsinformationen des Instituts für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen
- Bundesministerium für Gesundheit: gesund.bund.de – Nationales Gesundheitsportal
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.