My nurse practitioner recently diagnosed my back pain as osteoporosis. He recommended I go on medication for it. I’m 72 and generally feel great. What’s the big deal?

Osteoporosis is often a life-changing disease. Pain can eventually cause people to be less active, leading to muscle weakness and loss of independence. Weakened vertebrae can fracture from minor trauma or simply from the weight of the body on the spine. These fractures are known as compression fractures of the spine. A fracture like this can lead to chronic pain, decreased lung and intestinal function, and even depression. Proper treatment and management can help offset potential problems associated with this condition.