Osteoporosis is often called a “silent” condition because it can develop slowly over many years without causing obvious symptoms. Many people don’t realize they have it until they experience a fracture from something as simple as a minor fall or even a sneeze. Understanding what osteoporosis is, why it happens, and how you can take steps to protect your bones is key to maintaining mobility and independence as you age.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become thin, brittle, and more likely to break. Bone tissue is constantly renewing itself; old bone is broken down, and new bone is formed. When you’re young, your body makes new bone faster than it breaks down old bone, which keeps your skeleton strong. But as you get older, this process slows down, and bone mass can start to decline.
When too much bone is lost, or not enough new bone is formed, the bone structure becomes weaker. This makes it more susceptible to fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.
Who Is at Risk?
Osteoporosis can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk:
- Age: Risk increases as you get older.
- Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are more likely to develop osteoporosis due to a drop in estrogen.
- Family history: Having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis raises your risk.
- Body type: Smaller, thinner individuals often have less bone mass to begin with.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, low physical activity, and poor nutrition all contribute.
- Medical conditions and medications: Certain illnesses and long-term use of corticosteroids can weaken bones.
How Osteoporosis Affects Daily Life
While osteoporosis itself doesn’t cause pain in its early stages, fractures from the condition can lead to serious health problems. A broken hip, for example, can require surgery and long recovery times, sometimes limiting independence. Spinal fractures can cause loss of height, a stooped posture, and chronic back pain.
These physical changes can also impact balance, increasing the likelihood of future falls and injuries.
How to Protect Your Bone Health
Even if you have risk factors, there are ways to strengthen and protect your bones:
1. Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D. Calcium helps maintain bone density, while vitamin D supports calcium absorption. Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, and supplements can help meet daily needs.
2. Stay Physically Active. Weight-bearing exercises, like walking, jogging, dancing, or resistance training, stimulate bone formation and help maintain strength. Balance-focused activities such as yoga or tai chi can reduce the risk of falls.
3. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken bones over time.
4. Stay Safe and Prevent Falls at Home. Keep walkways clear, install grab bars in bathrooms, and ensure good lighting in your living space.
5. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider. Bone density tests can help detect osteoporosis early, before a fracture occurs. If needed, your provider can recommend medications to slow bone loss or increase bone strength.
AIM Group Offers Primary Care & House Calls In East Hills, NY
Osteoporosis is common, but it isn’t an inevitable part of aging. With awareness, healthy habits, and regular check-ups, you can help protect your bone strength and reduce your risk of fractures. Strong bones are the foundation of an active, independent life and it’s never too early or too late to start taking care of them.
At Advanced Internal Medical Group in East Hills, NY we have 40 years of experience providing care with over 20 services in primary care, house call appointments, and more. To learn more about any of our services, call 516-352-8100 to speak with one of our team members.