Most people don’t know they have osteoporosis until something breaks – literally.
Osteoporosis (or its precursor osteopenia) affects two thirds of Australians over the age of 50 and significantly increases your likelihood of sustaining a bony fracture from a fall or injury.
The problem is that there are often no signs or symptoms of the disease until it’s too late.
Osteoporosis is characterised by low bone density – that is your bones become brittle, weak and more likely to break from minor trauma.
While our bone density typically decreases normally as we age, there are many risk factors that can cause the exaggerated bone loss we see in osteoporosis.
This can include hormonal changes (both in men and women), a sedentary lifestyle, smoking/alcohol and some medication use.
Osteoporosis is unfortunately common amongst post-menopausal women due to low oestrogen but can also affect men who are low in testosterone.
Being a little deficient in Vitamin D and calcium – necessary ingredients in maintaining strong bones – can also cause low bone density.
The good news is, there is plenty of evidence to suggest we absolutely can increase our bone density and there are lots of ways to do it.
Firstly, it’s essential to check in with your GP who may initially order a bone scan to understand the state of your bone health.
A GP can then prescribe medications and dietary supplements to boost your bone density depending on the degree of osteoporosis or osteopenia.
There is also very good evidence to show that heavy, weight-bearing exercise can toughen your bones by stimulating bone growth.
When done correctly, lifting weights and some impact exercise can reverse osteoporotic changes and is, most importantly, safe.
Someone like a physiotherapist is well placed to prescribe and supervise appropriate exercise programs for someone with osteoporosis as often activities like walking are not enough to create the necessary change.
Osteoporosis is just another reason why we all need to get out there, stay active and keep moving – exercise still remains one of the best medicines we have!
Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form and Practice Mt Evelyn, Olinda and Chirnside Park.
His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health.
Find out more at formandpractice.com.au
