Other Consequences - The Consequences Of Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Other consequences
Although trabecular bone loses density at a faster clip, compact bone eventually becomes vulnerable, as well. As osteoporosis advances, bones with a high proportion of compact tissue — such as the tibia (shin), humerus (upper arm), and femur (thigh) — are fractured with increasing frequency. Ribs may be broken from the force of a cough.
Although the jawbone may not snap, it is not exempt from bone loss. As the jaw becomes increasingly porous, it provides less support for the teeth anchored into it. The result can be dental problems such as loose teeth and ill-fitting dental plates.
Figure 7: Fractures by siteEach year, more than 1.5 million fractures occur as a result of osteoporosis.
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| Last updated: | January 23, 2007 |
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Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
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