Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that is heading to epidemic proportions as our population ages. It causes bones to become weak, and those with it to suffer fractures (broken bones) much easier. Fractures of the spine, hip, and arms are most common, and can be very debilitating for those who have one.
Some people are at greater risk than others for developing this problem. These are the common risk factors that make one more likely to develop osteopenia (low bone density) or osteoporosis (bones that have become so weak that they will break easier):
- Females develop osteoporosis more frequently than men
- Caucasian or Asian race (a person of any race can develop osteoporosis, but these two groups have it more often)
- If someone in your immediate family has osteoporosis (ie: mom, dad, aunt, or grandma)
- Age ( as we age, bone density decreases )
- Menopause (when the female sex hormones diminish, bone density decreases quickly)
- Smoking or excess alcohol intake
- Body weight below 127 pounds, and a small frame (small/petite bones)
- Long-term steroid use
- Low calcium and vitamin D intake
Weight bearing exercise can help prevent and reverse osteoporosis. Physical therapists can work with your physician to maximize your bone density and protect your bones through education, back protection instruction, and development of an individualized exercise plan to meet your specific needs. Stop into the Rockwell Collins Rec Center Physical Therapy clinic to pick up a free flier with more information, or visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation web-site at www.nof.org