Can you imagine having to cough or sneeze – and it causes you to BREAK a bone in your body! OSTEOPORSIS is called a “silent disease” because you may not notice any changes going on in your body until a bone breaks. Because of the proven studies that can slow the Risk of Osteoporosis. We want to share these study results that could give YOU more years being free of the risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is responsible for more than two million fractures each year. If you’re one of the majority of Americans, age 50 or older – you may want to get educated about “Osteoporosis” before you experience a unforeseen Break of a Bone.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, to the point where they BREAK easily – most often in the hip, backbone (spine), and wrist. Bone is a “living tissue” that is constantly being broken down and replaced with new bone tissue.
Who gets Osteoporosis?
Although both men and women get “osteoporosis” women are four times more likely to develop the disease than men. Why, because women tend to have less bone density than men, they’re at a “greater risk.” But men need to be on guard as well. About have of men over the age of 50 has osteopenia – a significant lessening of bone density and precursor to osteoporosis. Typically, our bones strength and replacing itself up to the age of 30. Our bone mass and density start’s declining when individuals enter their 40s and 50s. Despite these startling statistics, there’s Good News. Many risk factors can be minimized by simple lifestyle changes to help “Prevent” and slow the risk Osteoporosis!
Here are (5) things YOU can do to HELP ensure your bones stay strong as long as possible:
- Eat a nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. You don’t need dairy products alone to accomplish this, eat Dark, leafy greens such as broccoli, spinach, kale and collard greens, other legumes. Also, there’s many seeds and nuts are excellent sources of calcium to maintain good bone health. Read this amazing article “Calcium: Think outside the carton” written by the Mayo Clinic Staff https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating I quote “ If milk and dairy foods are off the menu, how can you be sure you’re getting enough Calcium? Try going green. Broccoli and dark green vegetables, such as spinach, kale and collard greens, are good sources of calcium. Also look for calcium-fortified foods, such as soy milk and fruit juices.”
- Stay physically active with regular weight-bearing exercises such as everyday walking. Bulking up on muscle helps reinforce bones that may be weakening. Plus, more strength translates to “fewer fall” and LESS change of a fracture bone.
- Take your Medications and Vitamins. Some of us more than others after taking a density test, may need certain bone strong vitamins or medications. These meds and vitamins may can help prevent fractures in individuals who test more prone to osteoporosis.
- Avoid the use of tobacco / smoking. Also avoid second -hand smoke if you are not smoking. There are studies proven, if you live with a heavy smoker, you can have a five times more Risk for osteoporosis, especially if you’re a woman.
- Drink alcohol and caffeine in moderation. Too much alcohol and too much caffeine can rob and interfere with vitamin D production and calcium balance in our body, leading to a calcium shortage in the bones.
Another Interesting Fact: Increased Blood Flow and Oxygen even in your Joints – HELPS improve inflammation, relieves pain and promote healing. Compression Socks and Upper Thigh High Compression Stockings are used by most physician’s to help relieve joint pain your Legs, Knees and Ankles.
You may Ask How can Compression legwear HELP with Joint Pain? Compression Socks compress the ankle and calf area, opening the veins, promoting good blood flow, forcing the blood back to the heart and lungs to be Re-Oxygenated. The more oxygen in our blood vessels the better you feel. Oxygen HEALS! Many Orthopedic doctors after surgery, wants their patients to wear support garments / stockings on their legs to help the (healing process). Why, because the more OXYGEN circulating in your blood vessels in that particular area, helps improve and speed up the Healing process. Read the importance of good Blood Circulation for Arthritis in this Health Article, https://www.zarifausa.com/blogs/pain-management/blood-circulation-and-arthritis we quote from this article saying “ Blood circulation is crucial to attaining the highest quality of lifestyle when diagnosed with a degenerative joint disease like arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis has been proven to block blood flow in body parts like arms, legs, and elbows. The reduced blood flow can lead to coronary artery disease, inflammation, and narrowed veins.”
Why not TRY (1) pair – see if you can tell a difference with your joint pain and swollen joints.
When it comes to the “Risk of Osteoporosis” taking action today, can mean stronger bones tomorrow.
Written by Gwen Marion our “Certified Fitting Specialist” on October 17, 2022