Loss of peak bone mass, which is a measurement relative to age and sex, is asymptomatic at first. When symptoms do appear, they may be brushed off as related to another illness or just a natural part of growing older. Many cases of osteoporosis are not diagnosed until a physician orders an examination following bone fracture or splinter. If any of the following symptoms occur in a person matching one or more of the at-risk groups, it is extremely important to speak with a physician about getting a bone mineral density test. Once the condition is diagnosed, steps can be taken to prevent further damage, including special exercises, changes in the diet, lifestyle changes and supplements or medication.

The Symptoms of Osteoporosis
The first symptoms to arise are often overlooked. They will begin as minor nuisances and progressively get worse over time, so that the patient may not realize something is wrong until it has become unbearable. Beginning symptoms are a throbbing pain emanating from the bones and/or muscles. Lower back pain and neck pain are the most common manifestations, though any area is susceptible.

As the bones become progressively weaker, the pain may spread to other areas. It will also change into a sharp, localized pain, which occurs in specific situations. Exercising or weight-bearing activities can create the sharp pain, which will become a tender area. These sharp pains and tender spots may go away or persist for several months, depending upon the amount of damage to the area and nearness of nerves. Those who recognize these symptoms and speak with a physician about a treatment are the lucky ones, because the next symptomatic progression is bone fracture.

Fractures often occur in the major weight-bearing bones of the body, such as the vertebrae and feet, though any bones placed under stress can succumb to what are most commonly hairline fractures. Falling is one way fractures can occur, but it is not uncommon for patients to have no knowledge of a specific event. Compression fractures of the spine may be unnoticed until a stooping posture, called kyphosis, and a loss of height is observed. 

The only way to diagnose osteoporosis, or the preceding osteopenia, is through a bone density scan. Certain age groups, including women over 65 and men over 70, should always receive an examination. It is highly recommended that other age groups, falling under one or more of the high-risk categories, also receive an examination.