Site icon News Rubicon

A Comprehensive Guide to Osteoporosis Prevention

News Rubicon
Osteoporosis

An experienced Caucasian orthopaedic surgeon (doctor) examining a pelvic x-ray displaying signs of osteoporosis - hip degeneration. Actual x-ray of a 42 year-old woman with a degenerative hip. The Orthopaedic surgeon is using a pencil to point at the hip where the problem is. This patient is a candidate (real) for hip replacement. The dominant colour is blue.

Introduction:

Osteoporosis, a silent threat to bone health, affects millions worldwide, with one in three women and one in five men over 50 falling victim to its consequences, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation. Physicians emphasize that it’s never too early or too late to take proactive measures for prevention of osteoporosis, outlining a comprehensive plan to fortify your bones.

Exercise Regularly:

    • Prioritize both prevention and treatment through regular exercise.
    • Physicians recommend weight-bearing exercises like walking or jogging.
    • Caution is advised for individuals diagnosed with osteoporosis, urging consultation with healthcare providers or physiotherapists.

Eat a Nutritious Diet:

    • Embrace a Mediterranean diet and focus on adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
    • Physicians also recommend using online calcium calculators to track intake.
    • Natural sources are preferred, but supplements may be recommended by healthcare providers when necessary.

Avoid High-Risk Habits:

    • Quit smoking, as nicotine impedes bone-forming cell production and calcium absorption.
    • Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, linked to low bone density.

Know Your Personal Risk Factors:

    • Stay vigilant if you have conditions like type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or rheumatoid arthritis.
    • Menopause and family history significantly impact the risk of osteoporosis.

Ask Your Physician about Screening:

    • Understand the importance of bone density screening, typically done with a DXA scan.
    • Screening recommendations vary, but Dr. Keller suggests women start at 65, men at 70, with higher-risk individuals screened earlier.
    • Regular follow-up DXA scans are advised for those diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Take Medication if Needed:

    • There is the availability of safe and effective medications for building bone strength and preventing fractures.
    • Anabolic agents and antiresorptive medications play a crucial role in fracture prevention.

Conclusion: Physicians underscore the focus on fracture prevention in treating osteoporosis. Alongside calcium and vitamin D optimization, the importance of creating a safe home environment to eliminate potential hazards, emphasizing on these six steps are vital to prevent life-altering spine and hip fractures that can lead to chronic pain and disability.

Exit mobile version