More about OI

Background to the condition: Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is also known as "brittle bones". It is a genetic bone condition characterised by fragile bones that that break easily. A person is born with this condition and is affected throughout his or her lifetime. OI is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the body's production of collagen, which can be found throughout the body, especially in a person's bones, joints, ligaments, teeth and skin. As well as frequent fractured bones, people with OI often experience: bone pain; muscle weakness; hearing loss; fatigue; joint laxity / hypermobility; curved bones; scoliosis - curvature of the spine; dentinogenesis imperfecta (brittle teeth) and short stature.

OI has a wide range of severities and can affect children in many different ways. Whilst all children are encouraged to do as much as they can for themselves and as normally as possible, there may be some areas that they require support with.