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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis

Description Of The Injury: Osteoporosis is a prevalent bone disease that decreases the density of the microarchitecture of the bone. This decrease in the structural integrity of bone can result in porous areas that greatly increase the chance of fractures and serious bone breaks from a fall. Oosteoporosis largely begins to affect a person's body after 50 years of age, with women being more susceptible to it than men due to reduction of estrogen presence after menopause.

Injury Symptoms: Osteoporosis carries no immediately identifiable symptoms. If you have consistent backache, have experienced a gradual loss in height and a stooping of your posture or have fractured your spine, wrist or hip, you may have osteoporosis.

Additional Information

Home Treatments:

At home treatment is imperative for osteoporosis. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake based on the recommended age-dependent levels is critical. Post menopausal hormone replacement therapy will also aid in osteoporosis treatment.

Professional Medical Treatments:

Professional treatment begins with the prescription of an osteoporosis drug that helps maintain bone mass such as bisphosphonates. Impact exercises will also be advised. If a fracture occurs due to osteoporosis, surgery may be needed to replace the brittle and broken bone.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

Physical activity and exercises is an important component in treating and minimizing osteoporosis. This primarily involves weight bearing exercises that provide impact to the bones, promoting adaptation and strengthening. Walking jogging and rowing are all recommended. Additionally, a general strength training workout using weight bearing machines, body weight or dumbbells helps as well.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

Exercise is a primary way to prevent the onset of osteoporosis. A walking, jogging, or rowing regiment of 3-4 times per week will greatly reduce the onset of osteoporosis. Additionally, activities such as dancing, hiking, stair climbing, or an aerobics class can also provide similar benefits. Progressive flexion and extension exercises of the arm, chest, shoulders, legs and backs using weights is another option.