The Role of Orthotics in Osteoporosis

Abstract

Vertebral fractures due to osteoporosis are the most common fractures in the elderly and are characterized by compression fractures of the anterior spinal column at the mid-thoracic spine and thoracolumbar junction. In the majority of patients, they cause acute pain and disability. In the longer term, changes in vertebral body shape can progress and result in spinal deformity such as loss of height and thoracic hyperkyphosis. Hyperkyphotic posture itself imposes stress on the anterior spinal column that increases the risk of new fractures and also disturbs normal balance, thereby increasing the risk of falls and other fractures. Hyperkyphosis and vertebral fractures due to osteoporosis are both associated with increased mortality and a range of adverse symptoms including chronic pain and fatigue, reduced back extensor strength, respiratory compromise, and depression, which all reduce physical function and quality of life [1, 2].