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The Structural Foundation For The Human Body

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Bones are the structural foundation for the human body. Without the bones, our bodies would fall down and take no particular shape. When bones are strong and healthy, an individual is able to be very physical and active and exert large forces on their body because the bone can handle it. When bones are weakened either through fracture or disease, bodily mechanical function is reduced dramatically. With this said, Osteoporosis can have a large effect on the mechanical strength of bone. Osteoporosis is very common and about 54 million Americans suffer from it. All of these people are at risk of fracturing bones and have reduced physical ability. The most common pathologic fractures are caused by osteoporosis in the elderly. More than 3 million U.S. cases per year are reported of osteoporosis [2]. The body is constantly absorbing and replacing bone tissue. With Osteoporosis, new bone creation doesn’t keep up with old bone removal, reducing bone mass and thus weakens the structure of the bone. Unfortunately it cannot be cured and in most cases, symptoms are not apparent until a bone fracture occurs. Upon the bone fracture, the disease can be diagnosed but too little, too late as a fracture has already been sustained. Treatment of the disease includes medication to replenish vitamins necessary for bone remodeling and lifestyle changes including physical exercise and diet. However these will only serve to prevent symptoms but will not cure osteoporosis. Osteoporotic

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