Ageing Well – Brittle Bones Are Not Inevitable
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, occurring in men and women of all races, but particularly post-menopausal white and Asian women.
It’s estimated to affect 200 million women worldwide and cause more than 8.9 million fractures annually, according to the Switzerland-based International Osteoporosis Foundation.
A healthy body constantly replaces old bone that is naturally broken down. For people with osteoporosis, however, bone loss outpaces the growth of new bone. Bones become porous, brittle, and prone to fracture, says Dr. Markus Gosch, a member of the German Geriatric Society.
“A person’s bones are best between the ages of 25 and 30,” after which their density and quality steadily decrease, Gosch says.
Many people with osteoporosis have no symptoms until the first fracture occurs. Various measurements and tests can reveal signs of the disease, but a conclusive diagnosis requires a bone density test.
Osteoporosis used to be seen as a normal part of aging and not a disease. “It’s often simply accepted today, too, causing a lot of suffering for those who have it,” says Dr. Hans-Christof Schober, president of the German Society of Osteology.
Osteoporosis can be treated with medications that stimulate bone growth and/or help maintain bone density. Good nutrition and regular exercise round out treatment and help to prevent osteoporosis in the first place. “Exercise is the most important thing,” Schober says.
Walking or cycling isn’t enough, though. Strength training with light weights will strengthen your muscles and bones.
To prevent fractures, it’s a good idea to do balance exercises as well, advises Gisela Klatt, president of the Düsseldorf-based Federal Self-Help Association for Osteoporosis. People diagnosed with osteoporosis, she says, often exercise less because they’re afraid of falling and breaking a bone – leading to even weaker bones.
“It’s a vicious circle,” remarks Klatt, adding: “At age 45, a bone density test showed that I had osteopenia,” which can be a precursor to osteoporosis. She’s now 68, but her osteopenia has worsened only slightly. To stay fit, she does calisthenics, among other things.
Recent Comments