Osteoporosis is a common yet serious condition that weakens your bones, making them more likely to fracture. Although the condition is more common in older individuals, there are effective ways to prevent and manage this condition.
The board-certified physicians at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists (IPRMS) in Arlington, Virginia, specialize in helping patients maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis as part of our age management services.
Osteoporosis develops when your body’s ability to produce new bone tissue decreases so your bones get less dense. The most commonly affected areas include your hips, spine, and wrists. Risk factors include:
Symptoms often go unnoticed until a fracture occurs, making it important to take preventive action. Keep reading as we give you detailed tips on how to stop the condition from progressing.
Calcium and vitamin D are very important if you want good bone health. Calcium supports your bone structure, while vitamin D improves calcium absorption in your body.
To boost calcium, incorporate foods like dark leafy greens, almonds, and calcium-fortified foods into your diet. And for vitamin D, talk to your provider about supplements and how to spend more time safely in the sun.
Regular physical activity is necessary for maintaining bone strength and density. Weight-bearing exercise, like walking, jogging, dancing, and strength training, stimulates bone formation.
Try to exercise regularly, for at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week, to keep your bones as healthy as possible and stop osteoporosis in its tracks.
Lifestyle choices can significantly affect your bone health. Smoking and alcohol consumption contribute to bone loss, accelerating osteoporosis and increasing your risk of fractures.
If you smoke, talk to your IPRMS provider about support through cessation programs or counseling.
Avoid alcohol if you can, and at the very least, keep your alcohol consumption within recommended guidelines (one drink per day for women and two for men).
Being underweight or overweight can negatively affect your bone health. Try to maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your bones.
Talk to your IPRMS provider about what a healthy weight means for you. Then focus on a nutrient-rich diet and regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises to manage your weight effectively.
For those at high risk of fractures, medication may be necessary to help strengthen bones. Some of the more common osteoporosis medication options include:
Talk about your medication options with your IPRMS provider to determine the best course of action for your situation.
Regular bone density screenings help monitor bone health and detect early signs of osteoporosis, so you can take proactive steps. Follow your IPRMS provider’s recommendations on how often to get tested based on your risk factors.
At Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists, our board-certified physicians are dedicated to helping you maintain optimal bone health.
Our age management specialists offer personalized guidance and treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
As part of a comprehensive approach to health at any age, your IPRMS provider may recommend a combination of therapies, including:
If you’re concerned about osteoporosis or want to learn more about preventing bone loss, schedule a consultation online or over the phone with an age management specialist at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists in Northern Virginia.
