• Loss of bone mass
• Symptoms may include back and neck pain
• Caused by poor diet, lifestyle, heredity or other factors
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males and females but more common in females
• Can occur at any age but more common in older adults
• May be mild with no symptoms to severe with high risk of fractures
• Not life threatening

• Exercise regularly, especially weight bearing exercises
• Avoid falls by wearing non-slip, low heeled shoes and removing rugs and other items that could cause tripping
• Use good posture while sitting and standing

FOR PAIN

• Apply hot or cold packs to the area
• Relaxation techniques
• Distraction
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen