When the mineral levels in your bones are low, it can lead to osteoporosis. Bones rely on minerals such as calcium to maintain strength. A lack of calcium can cause bones to become fragile and prone to fractures with osteoporosis. There are, however, treatments available to help increase bone density and reduce the effects of osteoporosis.
If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, read on to know what you can do to slow down the progression of the disease.
How Can Osteoporosis Be Prevented from Worsening?
You have a variety of options to control osteoporosis, ranging from lifestyle changes to medications. Remember to consult with your orthopedic doctor before starting any osteoporosis-related activity.
Here are some ways you can prevent osteoporosis from worsening.
Treat Underlying Health Conditions
Your bones constantly undergo remodeling throughout your life. A type of cell called an osteoblast continuously generates and maintains bone tissue. Meanwhile, another cell type called the osteoclast resorbs minerals from bone tissue and prevents excess bone accumulation. These cells work in balance to maintain healthy bone, but underlying health conditions can disrupt this balance and cause your bones to weaken gradually.
Addressing the underlying causes of osteoporosis should improve your bone health. Some diseases that can complicate osteoporosis include
1.Hormonal Disorders
These can be hyperthyroidism, where the overproduction of the thyroid hormone can lead to bone loss, as well as hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which your bones lose calcium due to an excess of hormones.
2.Conditions Affecting Nutrition Intake
These can reduce the amount of calcium and vitamin D your body takes in and uses, leading to a long-term deficiency and health problems like osteoporosis. Examples of such conditions are anorexia and malabsorption.
Many of these conditions are treatable and can be mitigated alongside osteoporosis.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise benefits your body in general, including your bones. Regular exercise triggers bone growth and maintenance as the skeletal system responds to mechanical stimuli. A sedentary lifestyle can weaken your bones and increase your risk of osteoporosis, so continue exercising alongside other treatments.
Include both cardiovascular and strength training exercises in your routine. Cardiovascular exercise improves blood circulation to your bones and organs. Meanwhile, strength training directly fortifies your bones and muscles, making them more resilient and enabling you to pursue more strenuous activities.
Consider exercises for balance and body coordination, as well. Better balance coordination reduces the risk of falls that might otherwise cause bone fractures.
Depending on your fitness level and bone density, high-impact exercises might be too risky. A physical therapist can recommend an exercise routine that gives ample stimulation to your bones without stressing them.
Maintain Proper Nutrition
Eating a well-balanced diet is crucial for managing your osteoporosis. In particular, you need to take appropriate amounts of calcium and vitamin D for proper bone health. Your cells deposit calcium into your bones to strengthen them, while your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium properly.
Adults up to the age of 50 should aim to consume around 1000 milligrams of calcium daily for adequate bone health. For older individuals, this requirement is 1200 milligrams daily. In old age, bone resorption tends to exceed bone formation. Hence, more calcium is needed to maintain bone density. However, doctors recommend a maximum of 2000 milligrams per day to avoid kidney stones and cardiovascular complications.
The following are calcium-rich foods:
- Dairy products such as milk and yogurt
- Dark green vegetables
- Sardines
- Salmon
- Soy products
- Fortified cereals and drinks like orange juice
Recommended intake levels of vitamin D are 600 to 800 IU daily. People who live near the equator receive ample sunlight, contributing to their vitamin D intake. You may also take supplements as recommended by a physician.
Avoid Vices
If you smoke or drink, you need to stop as soon as possible. Regular alcohol intake of over two drinks per day may worsen osteoporosis. Tobacco use can also negatively impact bone health, including narrowing arteries and impairing blood circulation. Work with your doctor to develop a withdrawal plan.
Consider Medications
Several types of medication can help increase bone density. Parathyroid hormones such as teriparatide are pretty common. This activates osteoblasts and promotes bone mineralization. Another class of drugs called bisphosphonates suppresses osteoclast activity, reducing the rate of bone mineral loss. For post-menopausal women, estrogen therapy can stimulate bone growth and reduce the risk of fractures.
These medications require regular monitoring to verify their effectiveness and detect any side effects. With proper guidance from your physician, pharmaceuticals can work hand-in-hand with other treatments to protect your bones from further damage.
Reliable Orthopedist in Maryland
Osteoporosis treatments can help mitigate bone loss and protect you from bone fractures. Work with your orthopedist to formulate a plan to keep your bones healthy.
If you’re seeking treatment for your osteoporosis diagnosis, our team of healthcare providers at Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland can address your needs. We provide comprehensive orthopedic care, including bone care, so that our patients can keep their bodies in motion.
OACM has locations in Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia, Eldersburg, Fulton, and Jessup, Maryland. Check out our locations page to learn more.
For inquiries, call us at (410) 644-1880 or toll-free at (855) 4MD-BONE. You can also request an appointment using our handy Klara widget, the message button at the bottom right corner of our website. We look forward to serving you!
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