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Osteoporosis

Also called Thinning bones or Brittle bones

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weaker and more fragile, so they break more easily, often after a minor fall or knock. It develops slowly over years and usually causes no symptoms until a bone breaks. It is most common in women after the menopause, but it also affects men.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Medicines can strengthen bones and lower the risk of breaks. Calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, not smoking and limiting alcohol also help.

Preventing falls, for example by making the home safer and checking eyesight and medicines, is an important part of care.

Common signs

  • Often no symptoms
  • A bone breaking after a minor fall, often the wrist, hip or spine
  • Losing height
  • Back pain from a broken bone in the spine
  • A stooped posture

How it is usually diagnosed

  • A bone density scan (DEXA)
  • A fracture risk assessment
  • Blood tests to look for causes

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Bone density (DEXA) scan reports
  • Fracture and X-ray reports
  • Blood test results
  • Medicine lists

Questions to ask your doctor

  • How high is my risk of a fracture?
  • Do I need medicine, and for how long?
  • When should I have another scan?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Severe pain after a fall, being unable to stand, or a suspected broken hip: call 112

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Menopause and perimenopauseWhen periods stop due to lower hormone levels, usually between 45 and 55. Symptoms can be eased with treatment and lifestyle changes.OsteoarthritisA common condition that makes joints painful and stiff, most often the knees, hips and hands. Exercise, weight loss and pain relief help.Coeliac diseaseAn autoimmune condition in which eating gluten damages the lining of the small bowel. It is treated with a lifelong gluten-free diet.