Osteoporosis and Bone Health. Use it, don’t lose it!

Written & Created by Amy Gallagher - Chartered Physiotherapist. Quay Kinetics Physio

Osteoporosis is often referred to as “the silent disease” with no clinical warning signs, it is often not picked up until a fracture occurs. As many as 30% of women across the USA and Europe over the age of 50 have experienced (recorded) osteoporotic fractures. The medical focus surrounding this condition is almost entirely based around prevention of secondary fractures, and reducing the worsening effects of the condition.

BUT… it is possible to prevent.

Bones are a living tissue in a constant state of localised remodelling in response to activity and stress. Essentially, bones are constantly removing old tissue and replacing it with fresh, strong cells. This process affects as much as 95% of the bones structure. The receptors for this process are heavily linked with our sex hormones, largely oestrogen. Which is why peri-menopausal women have an increased risk, due to a natural reduction in both hormone production and hormone receptors.

Research shows that by regularly stressing the bones to encourage remodelling, we can increase bone density, the younger we can act, the more we can prevent! Studies on young adult women have proven that weight bearing and resistance training, combined with a nutrient rich diet (particularly vitamin C and D) can encourage the maintenance of healthy bones.

Alarmingly, 60% of adults in the UK between the ages of 25-40 are not meeting the governments minimum guidelines for (even general) activity, with women reported as less likely to engage in exercise.

At Quay Kinetics Physio, we want to see these figures drop! Your physios are on hand to guide you through exercises and sign post you to activities, habits and local services that can support you.