The 4 stages of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common disease that affects some women throughout middle age and is one of the main effects of menopause, where the loss of estrogen causes the weakening of bones. It is a condition whose progress is classified into four phases, during which the bones deteriorate at a speed that exceeds the capacity for bone regeneration, making them more prone to fractures.

Stage 1
Bones develop to their maximum potential around age 30. At this time, bone is repaired and destroyed in a balanced way and there are no notable symptoms. As long as this rate remains constant, the bones will not weaken significantly.

Stage 2
The symptoms remain difficult to notice. It occurs between 35 and 45 years of age. At this stage, bones deteriorate slightly faster than the capacity for bone regeneration. This deterioration, called low bone density, could be detected by bone densitometry; However, the bones will not be significantly more likely to fracture because their strength has not deteriorated significantly.

Stage 3
The loss of bone mass becomes more noticeable. It generally affects women between 45 and 55 years old. The loss of hormones causes an imbalance between formation and destruction in bones and initiates weakening to the point that they are prone to breaking under pressure that would not normally affect a healthy bone structure. This intermediate degree of deterioration is called osteopenia.

Stage 4
The bones become much more fragile and the risk of major fractures increases. The patient may present constant pain due to small stress fractures, an increasing level of disability, with movement limitations, and spinal deformities. When the weight supported by the spine exceeds its capacity, along with muscle weakness, falls are common and, consequently, fractures.

However, there is good news for those who fear going through the different stages of osteoporosis. Consult your gynecologist about osteoporosis prevention and treatment options. Remember that your bone health depends on you.

Author: Dr. Konstantinos Tserotas

Tserotas Clinic