Throughout your life, your bones are constantly rebuilding. But as you age, you run a greater risk of your new bone growth not being able to keep up with the old bone you're losing. Osteopenia and osteoporosis develop when this imbalance makes bones weak and likely to break.

A stooped posture, low-trauma fractures, and collapsed vertebrae are a few of the tell-tale signs associated with weakened and brittle bones. But fortunately, an osteoporosis diagnosis doesn't have to be permanent. By taking the right steps, you can reduce your risk of future fractures, stop bone loss, and even rebuild your low bone density.

In this book, Dr. Ann E. Kearns, a leading endocrinologist at Mayo Clinic, provides clear, practical information on the common causes of osteoporosis and osteopenia, simple ways to prevent bone loss with nutritious foods and supplements, and how to test for low bone mass before a fracture occurs. You will also learn tips for healthy eating and beneficial exercises, using modern medications to stop bone loss and encourage new bone growth, and how to quickly and safely recover from injuries sustained from low bone density.

Together with your health care provider, you can take action to maintain strong bones and a full, healthy life.

Kearns, Ann E.

at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and a fellowship in endocrinology at Harvard University's Massachusetts General Hospital, she joined Mayo Clinic in 1998, where she has since helped thousands of patients by improving their osteoporosis treatment and helping prevent fragility fractures.

Dr. Kearns has also contributed to national efforts to close the gap between recommendations and typical care, working toward better diagnosis and treatment of people with osteoporotic fractures.