158 Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology bone mass without the presence of a fracture. The osteopenia often progresses to osteoporosis, with fractures present. Although once regarded as primarily a health issue for women, with the increasing age of the population, osteoporosis is now also becoming a concern for older men. With type I osteoporosis, also known as postmenopausal osteoporosis, fractures usually begin to occur about 15 years post-menopause the femoral neck, vertebrae, and wrist bones are the most common fracture sites. Type II osteoporosis, A physical exam and X-ray can confirm the diagnosis of osteochondrosis. The primary treatment is cessation of the activity believed to have been the cause. Stretching exercises for the thigh muscles can also help to relieve the strain on the tibial apophysis. Oral anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed to help address the pain and swelling. In severe cases, a physician may apply a cast to ensure complete rest of the knee. Check Your Understanding 1. List and describe the following types of fractures: simple, compound, comminuted, avulsion, spiral, greenstick, and stress. 2. Explain osteochondrosis. 3. Why is it important for children to avoid activities that could cause damage to an epiphyseal plate? Osteoporosis Osteoporosis (ahs-tee-oh-poh-ROH-sis) is a condition in which bone mineralization and strength are so abnormally low that regular, daily activities can result in painful fractures. With its honeycomb structure, trabecular bone is most commonly the site of osteoporotic fractures (Figure 4.36). Age-Related Osteoporosis Osteoporosis occurs in most elderly individuals, with earlier onset in women. The condition begins as osteopenia (ahs-tee-oh-PEE-nee-a), reduced sutisakphoto14’s portfolio/Shutterstock.com Figure 4.35 Note the prominent swelling below the knee. This is characteristic of Osgood-Schlatter disease. Steve Gschmeissner/Science Source, Dee Breger/Science Source Figure 4.36 Compare the normal trabecular bone (A) with the brittle, degraded bone (B) characteristic of osteoporosis. The yellowish, underlying tissue in B is visible because the surface of the bone (orange colored) has worn away. As the bone becomes more brittle, it is more likely to fracture. Which groups of people are most likely to suffer from osteoporosis? A B Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.