X-ray showing fractured spine due to osteoporosis

Spinal fracture in osteoporosis. X-ray of the vertebrae of a patient who has suffered fracture of the spine due to osteoporosis. The normal spine is seen as rectangular segments of bone, making up the body of each vertebra. At lower and upper centre are triangular vertebrae with wide disc spaces between. These vertebrae have fractured in shape and compressed, causing forward curving of the spine (kyphosis). Osteoporosis or 'brittle bone disease' leads to reduced bone density. There is thus a greater risk of bone fractures, particularly in the spine. Osteoporosis is usually due to hormonal imbalance, common in women after the menopause.. Stunning Photo Gifts From Science Photo Library

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