What causes bone calcification?
Sorry that your sister has had so much trouble. Unfortunately these injuries can cause long-term problems and the development of osteoarthritis is one. Without seeing the x-ray it is impossible to be certain what the cause of the calcification might be. Osteoarthritis shows up on x-ray as a thinning of the cartilaginous joint lining and increased density of the bone where the thinning is most severe. Calcium may also occur at the site of previously damaged soft tissue, such as the tendons, when it is laid down in the scar tissue. You ask specifically about osteoporosis. This is a reduction in the density of the bone and a loss of calcium. It occurs in older patients and particularly in women after the menopause. It may also follow wasting illnesses or the prolonged use of steroid medication. The calcification is not likely to be due to osteoporosis. Regrettably a fractured ankle, particularly if the weight-bearing surface is damaged, can be the beginning of problems. Hopefully it is no
