Did you know your bones are living tissues that constantly renew themselves?
When we’re young, the body makes new bone faster than it breaks down old bone – but as we age, it can’t keep up with the cycle. This causes a loss in bone density and strength, leading to fractures and other problems including back pain..
Osteoporosis is one of several conditions that can affect our bones, causing them to become fragile and break easily. It’s most common in women after menopause because oestrogen levels drop and bone cells become less active. People who have experienced significant weight loss or prolonged periods without adequate nutrition are also at risk. Untreated coeliacs, for example, are unable to absorb sufficient calcium and Vitamin D – both so important for bone health.
Over two million people in the UK are affected by Osteoporosis and ‘women aged over 45 years spend more days in hospital due to osteoporosis than diabetes, heart attack or breast cancer’ (according to Osteoporosis UK). Looking after our bones is an important part of preventing such conditions.
Can physiotherapy and chiropractic treatment help manage osteoporosis?
Exercise is a key component of the management of osteoporosis. Routines should be designed to help improve balance, strength, and flexibility but it’s important to note that not all exercises are appropriate for people with osteoporosis. These exercises should be done with care and under the supervision of a physiotherapist.
Suitable exercises include strength training and weight bearing as these are known to slow mineral loss in the bones. Other forms of movement can include walking, dancing, climbing stairs and jogging. Resistance exercises using bands or weights can boost bone strength. The more you exercise, the more you strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of fracture.
Chiropractic treatment can help with joint pain, which can lead to better mobility and less stress on the joints. This may also reduce the pain and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis, as well as improving posture. With this in mind, chiropractors may be able to help patients with osteoporosis by reducing the stress on joints and improving their mobility while they still have strong bones.
Bone health and diet
Calcium is important to bone health, of course, as it’s key in maintaining bone density. You can plan to incorporate it into your diet as many common foods are rich in calcium, including dairy products, almonds, edamame and leafy greens. The other major player in bone health is Vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. It can sometimes be difficult to get enough of it through diet, even though vitamin D is found in oily fish, egg yolks and red meat. Like calcium, it is possible to take supplements to ensure you’re getting enough. Sunlight also triggers the production of vitamin D. For more about Vitamin D – read this! Bare as you dare – how sunbathing prevents back pain
And, of course, book in for a check up with us here at Sundial. We’re always happy to see you!