What effect does osteoporosis have on spinal health?

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, which leads to weakened bones that are more susceptible to fractures and deformities. In the context of spinal health, this weakening can significantly impact the vertebrae, making them less able to support the body’s weight and maintaining structural integrity. As the vertebrae weaken, they may become more prone to compression fractures, which can lead to a hunching of the back or a decreased overall height in individuals affected by the condition.

In contrast, the other options suggest outcomes that are not associated with osteoporosis. Strengthening bones would contradict the fundamental nature of osteoporosis, while improving spinal posture and preventing disc degeneration are effects that would require stronger, denser bones and healthy vertebrae, which is not the case in individuals with osteoporosis. Therefore, the impact of osteoporosis on spinal health is primarily the weakening of bones, leading to various complications related to spine stability and posture.