Osteoporosis affects over 1 million male and female Australians with women over 75 being most affected.[1] Osteoporosis is where bone density and strength decreases due to mineral loss (calcium salts). Painful fractures can occur with the minor stresses of daily activities.[2]
We all should take action and reduce the risk of osteoporosis through regular exercise. Bones are a living, changing organ and become stronger in response to the strain or stress of load bearing exercise such as moderate to fast paced walking, jogging, skipping, jumping and including the activity of ball sports such as basketball, tennis and netball and with weight lifting e.g. hand and ankle weights.[2]
Consult your RACGP Family Doctor if you are concerned regarding a Bone Mineral Density x-ray. Start work today with your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist to change your future!
[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2019, Osteoporosis, AIHW, viewed 7 August 2020, <https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/osteoporosis/contents/what-is-osteoporosis>.
[2] Osteoporosis Australia 2014, About Osteoporosis, Osteoporosis Australia, viewed 7 August 2020, <https://www.osteoporosis.org.au/what-it>.
