What is the prognosis of Osteoporosis?

The outlook for people with osteoporosis is good, especially if the problem is detected and treated early. Bone density, even in severe osteoporosis, generally can be stabilized or improved, and the risk of fractures can be reduced by 50% or more after several years of treatment.

People with mild osteoporosis have an excellent outlook. Those who have a fracture can expect their bones to heal normally and the pain to go away within a week or two.

For people whose osteoporosis has a clear cause, such as prednisone use, the outlook is good if the cause is identified and corrected.