By Dr Irwin Lim, Rheumatologist
Snap! The Breaking Spine is a project by International Osteoporosis Foundation's photographer, Gilberto Domingues Lontro. This multimedia project portrays the impact of osteoporosis on the day-to-day lives of 6 patients. Young and old, male and female. People like you.
Osteoporosis is an insidious disease. Until the fracture.
In the case of spinal fracture, the fracture may be silent, meaning that the vertebrae can break without pain. Consider the people you see who look progressively stooped or hunched. One silent vertebral fracture is then followed by the second, then the third....
The 3 major signs of vertebral or spinal fractures are:
- height loss
- stoop
- and/or sudden, severe back pain
This cascade of fractures is preventable, with early diagnosis and treatment.
Dr Irwin Lim is a rheumatologist and a director of BJC Health.
BJC Health provides a connected care multidisciplinary team philosophy to deliver positive lifestyle outcomes through a holistic approach to those with degenerative & inflammatory arthritis, tendon injury and lifestyle diseases. Our clinics are located in Parramatta, Chatswood and Brookvale. Contact us.
This blog focuses on arthritis-related diseases, healthcare in general, and our Connected Care philosophy.
