Biomechanical Properties of Bone and Biomechanics of Age - Related Fractures - Review

From a biomechanical viewpoint, fractures are due to a structural failure of the bone. This failure occurs when the forces applied to the bone exceed its load – bearing capacity. The load – bearing capacity of a bone depends on the geometry (its size, shape and distribution of bone mass), and the material properties of a bone as well as the direction and magnitude of applied load. Bone fragility can be defined by biomechanical parameters such as strength, brittleness and work to failure. Strategies to reduce fracture risk must be based on a sound understanding of the cellular, molecular and biomechanical mechanisms that underlie the increased risk of fractures while aging. In this review biomechanics of bone and the etiology of age – related fractures from a biomechanical viewpoint have been discussed in the view of current literature. (From the World of Osteoporosis 2007;13:44-8