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Osteoporosis Treatment – 7 Ways to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Treatment -- 7 Ways to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis treatment is much more difficult if the disease is already present in the body. The age-old cliché “prevention is better than cure” is never more relevant than with osteoporosis.
Preventing osteoporosis is something that should be started at a young age but even starting at an older age can be worthwhile. Here are eight things you can do to prevent or reduce the chances of getting osteoporosis.

7 Ways to Prevent Osteoporosis

Do not smoke. If you are already a smoker and are concerned about osteoporosis then cease immediately. That can reduce the risk greatly.
Drink alcohol moderately. Of course it is best not to drink alcohol at all but that can be very difficult with today’s lifestyle, so drink in moderation.
Eat foods that are high in calcium such as milk, cheese, yogurt, fish, almonds and nuts and green leafy vegetables to name a few. Children should be encouraged to eat these types of foods from a very young age to ensure their bones develop properly and strongly.
Take a high-quality calcium supplement regularly.
Don’t eat junk food. If you must eat junk food do so rarely and don’t bring your children up to believe that junk food is good food. If you do you’ll be doing them a major disservice.
Exercise regularly. Regular exercise will not only strengthen and tone up your muscles but will also strengthen your bones. However, don’t overdo it.
Have a regular check-up and get your bone density checked so that any signs of osteoporosis can be found early and treated before it becomes a major problem.

Women, especially, need to take these measures to prevent osteoporosis as they are more prone to the condition than men.

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What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease the affects millions of women each year. It is usually developed after menopause in women but can also be developed in men. Osteoporosis causes the bones to become weak and brittle, leading to an increase risk of fractures and falls.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Symptoms of osteoporosis may include:

back pain,
fractured bones,
reduced height, and
poor posture.

Who is Most at Risk?

Those at greatest risk of developing osteoporosis are older Caucasian or Asian women with a small frame and a family history of the disease. Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and hyper- or hypothyroidism can also raise the risk of osteoporosis.

How is Osteoporosis Measured?

Osteoporosis can be diagnosed by measuring bone density through a dual x-ray absorptiometry test, an ultrasound, a quantitative computerized tomography testing, or a single photon absorptiometry test. Once diagnosed, osteoporosis can be treated with medications such as biophosphonates, raloxifene, calcitonin, and teriparatide. It can also be treated with hormone therapy or with physical therapy in some cases. In addition, it is important for those with osteoporosis to maintain good posture and to take caution in preventing falls.

How to Prevent Osteoporosis

The best way to prevent osteoporosis from developing is to increase bone density from ages 20 to 30. A good way to do so is by making sure that you get enough calcium along with enough vitamin D. Weight training can also help to strengthen the muscles. Avoiding alcohol and smoking are also important to prevent the development of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a serious condition. Both men and women who are experiencing possible symptoms should consult their physicians.

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