Osteoporosis is a disease that can affect the whole body. It silently and painlessly causes bones to thin, make them weak. In this weakened condition, bones can break easily - by lifting a flat of annuals, or lightly bumping in to something. Because the effects of osteoporosis cause pain and disability, it is important to look closely at steps you can take to prevent or treat the disease.
The specialists at Warren Clinic Osteoporosis Centers, with locations in Tulsa, Broken Arrow and Glenpool, are dedicated to preventing, identifying and treating osteoporosis and maximizing bone health. A typical osteoporosis treatment program includes a focus on proper nutrition, exercise and safety issues to help prevent fractures. In addition, your physician may prescribe medication to slow or stop bone loss and increase bone density.
Certain risk factors contribute your likelihood of developing osteoporosis. Please be sure to talk to your doctor about any question or concerns you have.
Osteoporosis Risk Factors You Can Change
- Sex Hormones: Absence of menstrual periods, low estrogen levels and low testosterone in men
- Anorexia
- A diet low in calcium and vitamin D
- Use of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids or some anticonvulsants
- Inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest
- Excessive use of alcohol
Osteoporosis Risk Factors You Cannot Change
- Gender: Women have less bone tissue and lose bone more rapidly than men because of the changes involved in menopause
- Age: Osteoporosis risk increases with age
- Body Size: Small, thin-boned women are at a greater risk
- Ethnicity: While no group is immune to osteoporosis, Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk
- Family History: People whose parents have a history of fractures also seem to have reduced bone mass and may be at risk for fractures
Preventing Osteoporosis
There are some things we can do to help offset the severity or help to prevent osteoporosis. Step number one is to consume plenty of calcium and vitamin D. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, recommended vitamin amounts for women are:
- Women 50 or under - 1000 mg of calcium per day; 400-800 international units (IU) of vitamin D per day
- Women over 50 - 1200 mg calcium per day; 800-1,000 IU of vitamin D per day
Try to consume most, if not all, of your daily recommended calcium through a well-rounded diet. If calcium amounts aren't adding up through food sources, then try taking a supplement. Vitamin D is often called the "sunshine vitamin" because the body makes it when exposed to the UV rays of the sun. It can also be found in several food options and supplements.
Step two is incorporating weight-bearing exercises to our weekly routines. This helps build bone density as well as strengthens bones. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting a weight-bearing program to help avoid injury.
Learn More About Warren Clinic Osteoporosis Centers
Please call us with questions (918-502-9520) or to schedule an appointment at the location nearest you.