Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone mass and density, leading to fragile bones that are more susceptible to fractures. When osteoporosis affects the spine, it can have several significant symptoms and consequences. As an expert in the field of orthopedics, I can provide a comprehensive overview of the symptoms associated with spinal osteoporosis.

**Step 1: Symptoms of Osteoporosis of the Spine in English**

Pain: One of the most common symptoms of spinal osteoporosis is pain, which can range from mild to severe. The pain is often described as a persistent ache in the back that may worsen with movement or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting.

Height Loss and Dowager's Hump: As the vertebrae in the spine collapse due to osteoporosis, individuals may experience a loss of height. This can be quite noticeable, especially in older adults. Additionally, the collapse of the vertebrae can lead to a condition known as a dowager's hump or kyphosis, which is a forward curvature of the spine that causes a hump-like appearance in the upper back.

Vertebral Fractures: The bones in the spine, known as vertebrae, are particularly susceptible to fractures in individuals with osteoporosis. These fractures, also referred to as vertebral compression fractures, can occur with minimal trauma or even without any apparent cause. They can lead to sharp, localized back pain that may not subside.

Reduced Mobility and Stiffness: The pain and fractures associated with spinal osteoporosis can limit an individual's ability to move freely. This reduced mobility can lead to stiffness and a decreased range of motion, particularly in the spine.

Breathing Difficulties: In severe cases, the curvature of the spine can compress the lungs, leading to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion.

Neurological Symptoms: Depending on the location and severity of the fractures, spinal osteoporosis can also cause neurological symptoms. These may include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs, which can be a result of nerve compression.

Loss of Postural Balance: The changes in the spine's curvature due to osteoporosis can affect an individual's balance, increasing the risk of falls and further injury.

**Step 2: "read more >>

Kyphosis and Bone Breaks in the Spine. The bones in the spine are called vertebrae. When they break, they are called vertebral fractures or compression fractures. Breaking one or more bones in the spine can cause sharp back pain that does not go away, or there can be no pain at all.read more >>