Dr Lauren Papa: Can You Really Prevent Bone Fractures?
When it comes to maintaining a robust, active lifestyle, bone health undoubtedly deserves a first-rate ticket. Bones are the pillars of your body, structurally supporting you and protecting your precious organs. Therefore, preventing fractures, an all-too-common side effect of weak bones is an issue of paramount importance. Dr Lauren Papa will now discuss whether you can really prevent bone fractures.
Understanding Bone Fractures
Bone fractures are breaks or cracks in the bones caused by injury, falls, or disease. These conditions lead to severe pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. While some fractures may occur unavoidably amid accidents or traumas, others are often the result of underlying conditions like osteoporosis, which deteriorate bone structure and strength. It’s primarily in this latter category that prevention tactics become viable.
Focusing on the Bone Fracture Prevention: Can You Really Do It?
In short, while you can’t prevent all fractures, you can significantly decrease your risk of fractures related to bone health. There is quite a number of proactive measures to up your bones’ defense system. First, a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein helps create a robust structure for your bones. Consider foods like dairy products, green leafy vegetables, oily fish, and lean protein sources.
Bone is a tissue that can greatly benefit from regular exercise in growing stronger. So weight-bearing exercises, like walking, jogging, weight-lifting, or stair climbing, can help increase bone strength and mass, reducing fracture risk.
Also, Dr Lauren Papa excessive alcohol and smoking can reduce bone mass and decrease bone strength, leading to higher chances of fracture due to minor falls or injuries. Other than that, preventing accidental falls, particularly in older adults, can reduce the number of fractures, especially of the hip.
For that, you must ensure a safe environment by keeping living spaces clear of clutter, securing rugs, installing handrails in bathrooms, and appropriate lighting, which can all decrease the chances of dangerous falls. Lastly, regular check-ups can lead to early detection of bone issues, ensuring timely treatment and prevention of potential fractures.