Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle. As bone tissue deteriorates, the body replaces it with new healthy tissue. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone tissue cannot keep up with the rate of deterioration. People suffering from osteoporosis are at a higher risk of experiencing broken or fractured bones. Additionally, injuries related to this disease are most common in the hips, wrists, and spine. According to the NCBI, it is estimated that more than 200 million people suffer from osteoporosis worldwide.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Back Pain – Pain from fractured or collapsed vertebrae.
Height Loss – Compression fractures in the spine can cause slouching and other posture issues.
Stooped Posture – The normal curvature of the spine can become manipulated to curl forward and twist the spine.
Broken or Fractured Bones – When bones lose their density, individuals are at high risk of fracturing or breaking bones.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors

Sex – Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.
Age – Older individuals are at greater risk of losing bone density.
Family History – Studies show having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis increases your risk of suffering from the same disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – Some diseases that affect bones and joints, like rheumatoid arthritis, increase your chances of suffering from osteoporosis.
History of Fractured Bones – A history of fractured bones may reveal a chronic problem with bone density.

How to Prevent Osteoporosis

Calcium Supplements – Calcium is a mineral that helps strengthen bones. Taking a calcium supplement can help to prevent bone loss.
Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports strong bones. You can get Vitamin D naturally through sunlight and food or by taking a Vitamin D supplement.
Diet – Monitor your diet to make sure you are getting enough calcium and Vitamin D. Dairy foods have high levels of calcium and Vitamin D can be found in fish, beef liver, and cheese.
Do Not Smoke – Smoking can decrease bone mass.
Limit Alcohol Intake – According to the National Institue of Alcohol and Abuse Alcoholism, “Almost all epidemiological studies of alcohol use and human bone health indicate that chronic heavy alcohol consumption, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood, can dramatically affect bone health and may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis later.”

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Osteoporosis

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Risk Factors

How to Prevent Osteoporosis

Additional Resources