Healthcare burden of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is responsible for a global medical and economic burden that will grow as the elderly population doubles over the next 20 years. Measuring the cost of the effects of osteoporosis on treatment of spinal disorders is important as we prioritize distribution of resources in the healthcare community. This article examines the monetary cost of osteoporotic disorders associated with spinal care, specifically compression fractures, complications of spinal fusions, and medical treatment of osteoporosis. Examining these costs will allow us to focus further research into the primary cost drivers associated with osteoporosis.