Osteoporosis literally means ‘porous bones’. It occurs when bones lose minerals such as calcium more quickly than the body can replace them. They become less dense, lose strength and break more easily. Osteoporosis is more common in women than men.
Risk factors associated with the development of osteoporosis include:
• Increasing age,
• Family history of the condition,
• Low vitamin D levels,
• Low intake of calcium,
• Low body weight,
• Smoking,
• Excess alcohol consumption,
• Physical inactivity
• Long-term corticosteroid use, and
• Reduced oestrogen levels.
So what can you do to help minimise the effects of Osteoporosis?
1. Calcium and Vitamin D supplements
2. Reduce smoking and alcohol intake.
3. Exercise. Resistive (weight bearing) exercises are helpful in preventing osteoporosis. Talk to your chiropractor about exercises that would be suitable for you.
References:
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/osteoporosis/contents/what-is-osteoporosis
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/resistance-training-health-benefits#health-benefits-of-resistance-training
https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/bone-health/exercise/exercise-your-bone-health
