Illustration of an elderly woman stooped due to osteoporosis and common fractures associated with the condition. Common fracture points include the spine (top circle), hip (middle circle) and wrist (bottom cirlce). Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle, so even mild stresses can cause a fracture. Bone tissue is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone. Women after menopause are more susceptible to this condition, which is attributed to a decline in ovarian hormone production. Treatment is based on treating and preventing broken bones and taking bone-strengthening medications.