October 20th is marked as World Osteoporosis Day and is dedicated to creating global awareness around bone health and osteoporosis prevention, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care. The day is observed with the aim of making Osteoporosis prevention a health priority and creating general awareness among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public that it might affect.
Know about Osteoporosis
The loss of bone density accompanied by the development of pore-like structures in the bones, usually observed in patients of advanced age is termed Osteoporosis. In extreme cases, the bones become almost sponge-like and lose rigidity, leading to weakness, pain, and higher instances of fractures. Common risk factors for Osteoporosis and ways to tackle them are-
Advanced Age
With advanced age, generally after 50, the body loses its ability to retain calcium in the body and there is mineral loss, leading to weakness. Bad posture with age can further the issue and lead to extra wearing of bones. To know more consult with orthopedics experts in Patiala.
Keeping an active lifestyle, with moderate, age-appropriate exercise is one way to ensure bone health. Consult with our physiotherapists for the upkeep of your bone health and that of your loved ones.
Gender
Women are almost twice at risk as men for Osteoporosis. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men after crossing the age of 50 have experienced a fracture due to Osteoporosis. The hormonal balance of women plays a critical role in their bone density. With age and changes of phases of life, women experience hormonal fluctuations. Consulting our gynecologists at Patiala can help manage these fluctuations and find ways to preserve bone health.
Hereditary
People with a family history of bone weakness and frequent fractures are more likely to develop osteoporosis. While hereditary patterns are challenging to track, our electronic systems for easy access are one way to keep all your medical records at the tip of your fingers.
Routine checks with an orthopedics expert or doctor for bones can help assess hereditary factors and ways to maintain excellent bone health.
Lifestyle
Those living a sedentary lifestyle, prone to alcohol consumption and smoking are at a higher risk of developing Osteoporosis. Certain food groups have also been linked to lowered bone density and the occurrence of Osteoporosis. Consulting a dietician for age-related appropriate care is a good way forward.
Bodyweight
While body weight does not directly hamper bone health, obesity can put unnecessary pressure on the skeletal system. A heavy body invariably puts stress on the bones and muscles responsible for carrying the weight. To know more visit our Osteoporosis treatment hospital in Patiala.
Maintaining an active lifestyle with healthy body weight can help reduce stress on the bones and help prevent fractures due to weakness.
Diet
Let thy food be thy medicine
Vitamin D deficiency can also lead to the weakening of bones. A person not taking enough calcium in their diet as per the requirement of their body can also suffer bone weakness.
Diet is an often overlooked aspect of healthcare. A diet is rich in calcium and minerals supported with Vit. D supplements can help protect against mineral loss and osteoporosis.
In conclusion, Osteoporosis is a condition that affects a significant part of the population and worsens with age, apart from other lifestyle choices. One can prevent this condition by consulting dieticians, physiotherapists, and medical experts for preventive care tips.
Regular check-ups and diagnostic tests advised by an experienced Orthopaedician are one way to detect the condition well in advance, and with appropriate treatment, the impact of the disease can be mitigated.
Consultant - Orthopedics Joint Replacement & Arthroscopic Surgery
Manipal Hospitals, Patiala
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