The bone becomes thin due to a loss of calcium, causing persistent backache, in the neck, rib, and hip area, The back gradually becomes stooped, reducing height. The causes of osteoporosis are varied, and include:menopause, when the female hormone estrogen is no longer produced (estrogen has a protective effect on the bones)deficiency in calcium and vitamins C and Dmalabsorptionlong-term use of corticosteroidsrheumatoid arthritisimmobilizationlack of sunshine.TreatmentDiet and NutritionIncrease your intake of dark green, leafy vegetables, sesame seeds, fish, beans, peas, dark blue­black berries, cherries, raspberries, citrus-rinds, and colorful fruits. Reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates, fat, animal products, and fizzy drinks. Dietary supplements include vitamins B6 100mg, folic acid 1mg, B12 1mg, calcium citrate 1g, and magnesium citrate 500 mg daily. An alternative treatment is natural progesterone cream, with added vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium.Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:Acupuncture This can restore the balance of energy in the body and provide relief from pain. Malabsorption may also be addressed.Naturopathy Biochemic tissue salts Calc. fluor. and Calc. phos. taken four times daily for four weeks.Massage Aromatherapeutic massage, relaxation therapy, and shiatsu may be useful.Herbalism Treatment may include the following as teas: dong quai, false unicorn root, black cohosh, licorice, and fennel.Osteopathy (Including Cranial) Gentle techniques for joint mobility will maintain musculoskeletal integrity.Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)AS is a degenerative rheumatic disease where spinal joints become inflamed, stiff, and eventually fused. It develops slowly. Symptoms are usually worse after rest and later may affect the chest, shoulders, hips, and knees, spreading up to the neck in severe cases.TreatmentSeek treatment from a registered practitioner who will prescribe according to your specific symptoms and constitution. Mobility delays fusion, and swimming and stretching may be suggested.Tens (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) This uses electrodes to block nerve impulses and to stimulate the release of endorphins.Hydrotherapy Epsom salt baths may be suggested, or adding aroma therapeutic oils to the bathwater, including lavender, rosemary, and basil. Massage with these oils may also relieve symptoms.Homeopathy Treatment should be constitutional, but Arnica, Rhus tox. and Bryonia may be appropriate short term remedies.Herbal MedicineHerbal treatment may consist of black willow, devil's claw, and bogbean, taken as teas.Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:Acupuncture and Osteopathy These can be helpful.