August 08, 2024
Bone Health: Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis
Hello! Today, let's talk about bone health, which is the foundation of our body, and specifically about the importance of preventing and managing osteoporosis.
Bones act as the support structure for our body. When bone health deteriorates, it becomes difficult to move, and various complications can arise.
What is Osteoporosis, the Silent Bone Thief?
Osteoporosis is a condition where holes develop in the bones, weakening their strength and making them prone to fractures.
Normal Human Bone
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis occurs more frequently in women, especially after menopause,
when a rapid decrease in female hormones makes bones more fragile. Even minor impacts can easily cause bone fractures, and once a fracture occurs, it may lead to further fractures, so caution is needed.
In particular, more than one-third of Korean women over 50 suffer from osteoporosis, and half of them have osteopenia, which is the precursor to osteoporosis. Men are not exempt either; about half of men over 50 have osteopenia, so it is important to be cautious to prevent progression to osteoporosis.
Who Should Get Osteoporosis Testing?
✅ Women over 50
✅ Men over 65
✅ Those with early menopause
✅ Those who have experienced fractures
✅ Those who have lost height
✅ Those with a stooped posture
Osteoporosis often has no symptoms in its early stages, so detection of the disease is frequently delayed. However, if left untreated, fractures can occur relatively easily. They typically happen in the spine and hip joints, and wrist fractures are common when falling. It is important to focus on exercise and nutrition for bone health from childhood and to manage osteoporosis through regular bone density tests if you are over 50.
Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. Therefore, preventing the disease before it occurs is crucial. Regular bone density testing is essential. Use a DEXA bone density scanner to accurately assess bone health.
Tips for Preventing and Managing Osteoporosis
- Maintain a regular exercise routine
- Keep an appropriate weight
- Increase muscle mass
- Consume calcium and vitamin D
- Reduce alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks
- Quit smoking
- Get bone density tests
To prevent osteoporosis, regular management is necessary. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is most beneficial. Foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, shellfish, tofu, and vegetables are high in calcium, and vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight. Additionally, weight-bearing exercises are needed. Activities such as walking, jogging, tennis, and dancing can be helpful.
IMC Gangnam Health Check-up Center
The IMC Gangnam Health Check-up Center is equipped with the latest DEXA bone density measuring devices, providing accurate diagnosis and treatment.
We are always prepared for your healthy life.
Have a healthy day! Thank you.
