What causes bone diseases, and key things that you need to know about common bone disorders Bones are living tissues made up of collagen and calcium phosphate that provide them strength and flexibility. Here, we have briefly discussed about some common bone diseases that people suffer from. Osteoporosis This common bone disease occurs when your bones become weak due to a change in bone mineral density and mass. This exposes the person to an increased risk of fractures. It is considered a silent disease as there are no obvious symptoms until the bone actually breaks. Although anyone can develop osteoporosis, the disease is more prevalent in the older women. Fracture Fracture is a break in the bone which occurs due to the sudden pressure or force on the bone due to falls, direct impact on the body, or sports-related injuries. Fracture can be either of the below four types: Closed fracture: The broken bone does not break the skin, so the fractured bone remains in one piece. Open fracture: The ends of the fractured bone tear through the skin, exposing the bone and other tissues at a greater risk of infection. Incomplete fracture: The bone breaks without braking completely, keeping it in one piece. Complete fracture: The bone is snapped or crushed into two or more pieces. Rheumatoid arthritis This autoimmune and inflammatory disease causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy cells mistakenly, leading to painful swelling in the affected area. The condition can attack multiple joints at once, usually the hands, knees, wrists, leading to deformities and instability. Bone infection Also known as osteomyelitis, this rare condition can occur following surgery, such as hip replacement. Prolonged high doses of steroids can also cause bone infection, and death of the bone cells. Once the bone cell dies, the bone weakens and can be easily collapsed. Low bone density Medically known as osteopenia, the bone disorder occurs when bone density is lower than normal. The condition can lead to osteoporosis that can cause pain and fractures.