This is part two in our two part series on osteoporosis. Here, Anna discusses what can be done to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Enjoy!
Prevention is better than cure:
Vitamin D is important for building bone. Older people often have low levels of Vit D due to less exposure to the sun and insufficient intake in their diet. Therefore Vit D intake can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Vit D is also needed in the absorption of Calcium which is one of the most important building blocks for healthy bones. At Good Country Physiotherapy, we sell a very good quality Vit D which is not expensive and you only need to take three drops a day. It is very easy to take.
Also minimising the risks that are around your home that may contribute to falls is very important, such as rugs, small tables and poor lighting. If you have low bone density and you fall, you are much more likely to fracture a bone.
There are different medications that can be taken to help manage or prevent osteoporosis such as calcitonin and hormone replacement treatment. You can discuss these with your doctor if you or they feel is necessary.
Exercise is very important!!! Not just any exercise but weight bearing or resistance exercise. We as physiotherapists can help you with this and design a program specifically for you to help you maintain your bone density. There is also a great exercise group in Keith and Bordertown called Hands on Health, which does a great variety of exercises once a week which would be ideal.
Healthy diet is vital. One that has sufficient Vit D, calcium and protein. Eating things such as salmon, leafy greens, cheese, milk, tofu, yoghurt and sardines. If this is difficult for you, supplement it with Vit D, or calcium supplements.
Quit unhealthy habits such as drinking or smoking.
If you want any more information see the links below or contact your physiotherapist in Keith, Bordertown, Kingston and Padthaway, or your local Doctor.
Helpful Links:
Osteoporosis Australia
http://www.osteoporosis.org.au/about/about-osteoporosis/what-is-osteoporosis/
Osteoporosis – Thin Bones
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001400/
National Osteoporosis Foundation
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