Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is the result of high osteoclast activity relative to osteoblast activity in postmenopausal women?

1. Bone formation increases

2. Bone density remains stable

3. Bone resorption increases

4. Bone strength improves

The correct answer is: Bone resorption increases

High osteoclast activity relative to osteoblast activity results in an increase in bone resorption. Osteoclasts are cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue, while osteoblasts are responsible for new bone formation. In postmenopausal women, decreased estrogen levels lead to increased osteoclast activity, which surpasses the ability of osteoblasts to form new bone. This imbalance results in a net loss of bone density, making bones more fragile and increasing the risk of fractures. Thus, the correct answer reflects the physiological changes that occur when osteoclast activity dominates over osteoblast activity in this population.