By Dottie Drake, R.N, Senior Fitness Specialist
The National Osteoporosis Foundation states that osteoporosis is responsible for over 2 million broken bones annually. For women, this is a greater health risk than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined. U.S. Surgeon General states that one out of two women over 50, and one out of four men, will have osteoporosis-related fractures in their lifetime.
Osteoporosis is a natural part of aging and occurs when there is low bone mass, causing the bones to become weak, dry and brittle. Often called the “Silent Killer,” bones in this state easily break from a fall or, in serious cases, from minor bumps or even sneezing. Many elements put you at risk for osteoporosis such as smoking, a diet low in calcium or vitamin D, or an inactive lifestyle. Clearing pathways in your home, vision checks and safe supportive shoes are all things you can do for prevention, but proper screening and exercise are paramount. Have you been screened? If not, ask your doctor for a DXA Bone Density scan. This simple, noninvasive X-ray will help you understand the current state of your bones.
If you have lost muscle and bone, it may be hard to walk—and even harder to exercise. But exercises like strength training using stretch bands, dumbbells, ankle weights or weight machines, or taking balance and strength classes in a health club setting, are excellent ways to rebuild your bones. Intimidated? Don’t be. There are various seated bikes and other recumbent machines available to get you started. At Miracles Fitness, we also utilize Keiser air compressed weight machines for safe and effective osteoporosis exercise. These machines increase in one-pound increments, and keep you in a seated position and safe range of motion.
There’s no cure for osteoporosis, but proper screening and getting appropriate exercise can help protect and strengthen your bones. Stop by or call Miracles Fitness at (609) 886-7070 today for a FREE balance screen from a physical therapist.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
