Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue.  This debilitating, yet preventable disease increases the fragility of the bone making it more likely to break.  The consequences of osteoporosis can be devastating.  Many disregard the severity of the disease and may consider it a normal part of aging.  This is not true.  Osteoporosis can lead to fractures primarily of the hip, spine, and wrist.

There are factors that increase our risk that are out of our control like our gender and race.  However, there are lifestyle choices that reduce our risk that are under our control like diet and exercise.
Risk factors that you can change:

• Hormone levels - have your estrogen level checked if you feel that these levels are low, especially after menopause.
• Activity levels - weight-bearing exercise is essential for building and maintaining bone health.
• Diet - a diet inadequate in calcium and Vitamin D is detrimental to bone health, especially from childhood through the mid 20's.
• Smoking - may interfere with calcium absorption and women who smoke typically have lower levels of estrogen than non-smokers do.
• Drinking - more than 2-3 drinks per day may cause bone loss.
• Medications - the long-term use of steroids can lead to bone loss and an increase in fractures.

If you already have osteoporosis, you might wonder whether you should exercise at all.  The answer for most people is YES!  Your chiropractor can help you develop an individualized exercise program that you can perform safely and is specific for your needs.  Our Six Weeks To Wellness Program is a perfect example.  You can also ask your chiropractor about calcium supplements that are easy for your body to absorb.