What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a metabolic disorder that causes a decrease in the mass and density of bone. It can affect anyone, but it is most common in post-menopausal females. This is especially true in women of European or Asian descent. The likelihood of developing osteoporosis increases with age in both men and women.
- One-third of women over the age of 50 will experience a fracture related to osteoporosis. For men, approximately one-fifth will experience such fractures.
- The most common types of fractures related to decreased bone density occur in the spine, forearm and hip.
- A decrease of bone mass density by a mere 10% can increase the risk of a fracture by 50%.

A common type of injury that qualifies a person for disability is problems with the back and spine. This occurs since most jobs require some degree of bending, stooping, sitting and lifting objects. If done incorrectly or without the use of proper ergonomics, these types of motions can cause serious harm, especially if you have brittle bones.
Another frequent type of back injury that results from osteoporosis in the spine is a compression fracture. Because the bone has lost mass and becomes weaker, even a mild trauma can cause vertebrae or multiple vertebrae to collapse. The result will be significant pain, decreased range of motion and the potential for serious damage to the spinal cord. It can also affect posture and the alignment of your back. Undiagnosed, you can face serious health consequences that will affect your ability to work and earn a living.
Contact our Professional New York Long Term Disability Attorneys
If you have osteoporosis and are experiencing chronic back pain or have suffered some form of trauma that affects your ability to work, you should talk to your doctor immediately. Once diagnosed with osteoporosis or an associated injury, you should contact our New York long term disability attorneys as soon as possible. Call Riemer & Associates at (212) 297-0700 for a case consultation.