Principles of diagnosing and managing postmenopausal osteoporosis for the podiatric physician.

Osteoporosis is an asymptomatic disease until a fracture occurs. The prevalence of osteoporosis will rise with the aging of the population. Recent advances have led to more efficacious treatment options. Targeted screening, educating patients about preventive strategies, and providing appropriate treatment for those at high risk will allow physicians to reduce the enormous morbidity and mortality associated with osteoporosis.