Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which the bones lose calcium,
become more brittle and break more easily. It is more common
in older people particularly women. One in five women breaks
a hip before the age of 75. As with all kinds of arthritis
and rheumatism keeping healthy and fit are crucial. Our bones
cannot maintain their strength unless our bodies regularly
have an adequate supply of calcium.
However calcium by itself will not stop bone loss. The body
needs to absorb the calcium and get it into the bone. Oestrogen
is really important for post menopausal women and weight bearing
exercises are crucial for everybody. The use of oestrogen
is a controversial topic so it is something you should discuss
individually with your Doctor.
Weight bearing exercise is very important in keeping bones
strong as the body reacts to this kind of exercise by laying
down more calcium in the bones. Walking is good, particularly
half a mile to a mile a day.
Osteoporosis by itself does not cause the pain. The pain
comes from the fractures in the spine or other bones. So it
is very important to avoid falls to prevent broken bones.
Have a good look around the home and remove any slippery rugs.
Make sure stairs are well lit with hand rails. When you are
out look out for wobbly steps, uneven floors and wear shoes
that give good.
|
