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Osteoporosis facts, Myths, Risks and Tips

Osteoporosis facts, myths, tips and risks from Mersea Road Clinic

Osteoporosis is condition that causes weak, porous bones and is one that is hugely misunderstood. We have put together some simple facts, myths, tips and risks that we hope will help towards raising awareness of the condition.

5 Facts

 

  • Osteoporosis affects around three million people in the UK
  • Osteoporosis affects 1 in 5 men over the age of 50
  • Worldwide, 1 in 3 women over age 50 will experience Osteoporotic fractures, as will 1 in 5 men aged over 50
  • The most common places for Osteoporotic fracture are the wrist, spine, shoulder and hip
  • Unfortunately Osteoporosis has no symptoms and usually goes undetected until a relatively minor incident causes a fracture for example.

5 Myths

 

  • It is a natural part of ageing: Although Osteoporosis and resulting fractures are more likely to occur as you get older, they’re not inevitable.
  • Only women get it: It is true that more women than men develop Osteoporosis. However men still can be affected and it has been suggested that younger men are more likely to fracture bones than women.
  • People with osteoporosis can feel their bones getting weaker: Osteoporosis is commonly called a “silent disease.” And often breaking a bone is the first clue you have osteoporosis.
  • I do not need to take Vitamin D or Calcium if I am taking Osteoporosis medicine: Although the medicine you are taking is designed to help prevent bone loss, it is not necessarily the case that they contain calcium and vitamin D.
  • If you have Osteoporosis, it's too late to do anything about it: A common misconception for those who are diagnosed. However there are a number of options available which may slow the disease and lower the risk of fracture and strengthen the bones.

5 Risks:

 

  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol consumption (more than 2 units a day)
  • Poor diet (low levels of calcium)
  • Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency
  • Lack of physical exercise or excessive exercise that leads to low body weight

5 Treatment tips to help manage and help reduce further symptoms:

 

  • A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
  • A manageable and realistic exercise plan
  • A healthier lifestyle
  • Alternative treatments such as Osteopathy or Acupuncture
  • Take precautions to help prevent falls whilst outdoors and indoors.
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