There are 206 bones in the adult human body, according to Kids Health. Bones give the body shape, provide support for internal organs and allow for movement. Bones are live structures that grow until the age of 20 to 25 and are constantly changing and regenerating thereafter. As the body ages, it loses bone more quickly than it makes bone, which can result in the development of bone diseases. In order to prevent bone loss, it is important to get adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D and follow a regular exercise routine.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the most common type of bone disease, according to Medline Plus. It is a chronic, degenerative bone disease that is characterized by the loss of bone density over time. This loss of bone density occurs as a result of the body’s failure to generate new bone, when too much bone is reabsorbed by the body or a combination of both factors. Decreased bone density leads to an increased chance for fractures. Osteoporosis has no symptoms in its early stages and usually is not diagnosed until a fracture occurs. Symptoms of later stage osteoporosis include bone pain or tenderness, loss of height, low back pain, neck pain, stooped posture and repeated fractures. Lifestyle modifications, such as increased exercise and a healthier diet, and medication are used to slow down or stop bone loss and control pain. Osteoporosis is a debilitating disease, but it does not decrease life expectancy, according to Medline Plus.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that have increased chance of breaking. Those with osteogenesis imperfecta are born with decreased amounts of collagen or an inability to make functional collagen, which is a protein that is important in the formation of strong bones. Osteogenesis imperfecta is classified in types by severity, and symptoms vary based on what type of the disease is present. Symptoms of mild cases of osteogenesis imperfecta include brittle bones, loose joints, muscle weakness, brittle teeth, difficulty hearing and possible spine curvatures. More severe forms of osteogenesis imperfecta cause numerous fractures, bone deformity, small stature and increased risk of death, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. There is no cure for osteogenesis imperfecta, but treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms, maximizing independence and increasing muscle strength. Physical therapy and surgery are often used in combination with braces and wheelchairs to aid in movement.
Paget's Disease
Healthy bone metabolism is characterized by the breakdown of old bone followed by the regeneration of new bone. Paget’s disease is a condition in which the old bones break down, but the regeneration of new bone is abnormal or non-existent. Paget’s disease is believed to be linked to a genetic predisposition to the condition. Most of those affected by Paget’s disease do not have any symptoms. When symptoms do occur they include pain in the bones, stiffness and swelling of the joints, skin warmth, hearing loss, headache, bone deformities and fractures. Paget’s disease most often affects the skull, spine, arms, legs and pelvis, according to the Mayo Clinic. When there are no present symptoms, treatment for Paget’s disease is not required. When treatment is required, it includes medications to alleviate pain, inflammation and help rebuild bone tissue. In rare cases, surgery is required to heal fractures or repair damaged joints.
