Your bones are essential in keeping you upright and moving around. They support your body. They act as attachments to allow your muscles to move. As your bones are so important, it is essential that you treat them right. You only get one set!
Facts:
- It is more common for women to suffer from ill bone health. One in two women over 50 will suffer from a fracture due to osteoporosis (weak/brittle bones) in their lifetime, versus one in five men.
- The first sign of osteoporosis is usually a fracture.
- Common fracture sites can include the wrist, hip and spine
- In Ireland in the year 2010, there were nearly 4600 hip fractures.
It is so important that your bone health is a priority before it becomes too late.
Key things to help keep your bones healthy include:
- Participating in weight bearing activities and exercises.
- No smoking – the chemicals in cigarettes can cause accelerated bone loss.
- A good balanced diet – constant dieting can cause an increase in bone loss.
If you suspect that you may be suffering from osteoporosis, it is important that you ask your GP for a referral for a DXA scan. A DXA scan measures your bone density and lets you know if you have normal done density, osteopenia (below normal but not osteoporosis) or osteoporosis.
If you have osteoporosis:
Make out a personalised treatment plan with your GP and your physiotherapist. You will need to participate in weight bearing exercise every day for the rest of your life. Weight bearing exercise can be something as simple as walking. Be careful when it’s icy or slippy out. Or if you are walking on uneven surfaces. It’s important to try and prevent falls because your bones are fragile and susceptible to fractures.
If you are having problems with osteoporosis or your bone health, do not hesitate to contact one of our chartered physiotherapists at Archview Physiotherapy Clinic, Dublin 6 and Dublin 14 for a consultation on 01 4913228 or email [email protected].
