[Influence of obesity on fracture risk in osteoporosis]

The skeleton is part of the locomotor system which has a static and a dynamic biomechanical function. Bone mass, bone shape and bone structure influence these skeleton functions and also determine bone strength, an important determinant of fracture risk. They are mostly genetically determined and linked with body shape, structure and weight. This relationship is also genetically determined. Changes in body weight, structure and shape through biomechanical and humoral mechanisms cause changes in the bone mass, shape and structure. These processes also lead to changes in neuromuscular system to occur which influence the risk of fall and bone strength. As long as the changes in body weight and body structure are within the physiological range, the fracture risk does not change significantly. Low body weight increases the risk of fracture. In obesity pathophysiological processes develop, some of which could negatively influence the fracture risk. The results of studying the influence of obesity on fracture risk have been contradictory. Based on the current knowledge, we may conclude that obesity probably does not protect from fracture.