
Osteoporosis is the decay of bone density within the body. This weakened bone density predisposes the individual to fractures most commonly affecting the hips, wrists, and vertebrae. The onset of osteoporosis typically occurs around the age of 50. This condition affects women more commonly as 1 in every 5 women age 50 or above have been diagnosed with osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is very common, especially among women
Effects 1 in every 5 women above the age of 50
Effects 1 in 20 men over the age of 50
While there hasn’t been research or studies to prove this, it is well assumed this number increases greatly by age 60 and age 70.
What are the implications of osteoporosis?
Breaking and fracturing of bones
Compression of vertebrae causing a decreases in height
How to minimize the effects osteoporosis?
While there isn’t a full proof way to “cure” osteoporosis, there are several actions that can help minimize the impact of it.
Eating a well rounded diet with appropriate calcium and vitamin D
Resistance Training! Research completed by the National Institute of Health found a significant impact on bone density of subjects (mix of male and female over the age of 60) over an 18 month resistance training program. Nearly all of the subjects maintained their bone density while 60% increased their bone density!
Key takeaways:
Osteoporosis is a very common occurrence in adults age 50 and above. Left untreated, most will have a high risk of fractures, many of which can be highly debilitating.
The only proven methods to counteract osteoporosis are through diet and resistance training.
If you or someone you know is struggling with osteoporosis or would like to get a leg up on it and work to minimize the potential effects come see me to determine our best approach to take in this process.
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