More than 66% of over 50's have poor bone health. This can lead to fractures from minimal trauma. Think falling over a rug, a knock on the wrist or a wrong movement at the gym. Osteoporosis is one of the contributing factors of brittle bones. You don't need to break a bone to come visit us in our clinics! Read on to reduce your risk. 

Risk Factors

• Over 50
• Menopause before 45
• Family member with Osteoporosis
• High levels of alcohol use or smoking
• Sedentary Lifestyle
• Small frame
• Long term steroid use (over 3 months)
• Thyroid and Parathyroid concerns
• Liver or Kidney disease
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Malabsorption disorders

Diagnosis

• Know your Bones is a great online tool that can give you an idea of your bone health and the next steps required. 
• If you have had a minor fall and still have pain in a bone or joint a week later, book in with your GP and ask for a Osteoporosis screen
• Request a Bone Density Scan (or DXA test) from your GP 

Prevention and Treatment

• 90% of peak bone density is acquired before the age of 20 - so if you are in this age bracket or you have a younger family member - read up on good bone health for late teens. 
• Weight bearing exercises - this can be as simple as walking and lifting light weights or as extreme as running up hill and weightlifting. Come and see one of our Exercise Physiologists to tailor a program for you. 
• Quit smoking and alcohol - sadly this can increase osteoporosis and falls. 
• Medication to prevent further bone loss. Book an appointment with your GP. There are various options that works for each patient. 
• Ensure you get adequate levels of Calcium and Vitamin D - Between 1000mg-1300mg of Calcium and a little bit of sunshine each day for your Vitamin D. 
• Reduce your falls risk. Preventing Falls at Home is a great resource to read through. 

Written by David Coles