In the case of a slip, trip, or fall, the force of the impact on a bone physically deforms a pair of joined proteins, osteopontin and osteocalcin, and results in the formation of nanoscale holes. These holes, called dilatational bands, function as a natural defence mechanism, and help to prevent further damage to the surrounding bone. However, if the force of the impact is too great — or if the bone is lacking osteopontin, osteocalcin, or both — the bone will crack and fracture.
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