Viewed under a microscope, healthy bone looks like a honeycomb. When osteoporosis occurs, the holes and spaces in the honeycomb are much larger than in healthy bone. Osteoporotic bones have lost density or mass and contain abnormal tissue structure. As bones become less dense, they weaken and are more likely to break. Osteoporotic bone breaks are most likely to occur in the hip, spine, or wrist. In addition to causing permanent pain, osteoporosis causes some patients to lose height. When osteoporosis affects vertebrae, or the bones of the spine, it often leads to a stooped or hunched posture.
–“What Is Osteoporosis and What Causes It?”
National Osteoporosis Foundation
How does osteoporosis weaken bones? Check all that apply.
lowers bone mass
lowers bone density
creates holes in bones
causes permanent pain
results in a loss in height
results in stooped posture
occurs in hip, spine, or wrist