Exercise Helps ToTreat and Prevent Osteoporosis

Exercise is important during every stage of life for keeping obesity, heart disease and depression at bay. Senior adults have an added reason to move. Physical exercise has been proven be effective in both treating and preventing osteoporosis, a disease resulting in the loss and weakening of bone. Bone mass, which usually peaks around 30 years of age, starts to decline with age. As bones becomes less dense and more porous there is a greater risk of breaks especially in the wrists, spine and hips. Women over the age of 50 are particularly at risk.

Bone, which is composed of living tissue, responds to exercise in much the same way as muscle does, by becoming stronger over time. As the body ages, regular physical activity helps to keep bones in peak condition. After an osteoporosis diagnosis exercise becomes even more critical as it counteracts the effects of the disease while also maintaining muscle coordination and balance, which can prevent a disastrous fall and bone break.

However, not all exercise has the same impact on preventing and treating osteoporosis. To see the best results in bone health weight-bearing exercise should be a priority. Weight-bearing activities require the body to work against the force of gravity to support weight on the legs and arms. The most common forms of this type of activity are weight-lifting and running. However, many seniors find these activities to be too high impact, leading to knee injuries and bone fractures. Lower-impact weight-bearing exercises include walking, dancing, and even gardening.

In addition to weight-bearing exercise, activities that focus on flexibility play an important role in the management of osteoporosis. Yoga, stretching and t’ai chi all help to keep joins healthy and decrease the risk of falls and injuries. While the options for appropriate exercise activities are plentiful, there are some that are not helpful in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis and other that can be harmful to those already facing the disease.

Activities such as swimming or bicycling, which are popular among other adults, are not helpful because they lack the necessary weight-bearing component. Other activities that involve bending or twisting movements, such as sit-ups, rowing machines and even some yoga poses should be avoided after an osteoporosis because they can lead to fractures, particularly in the spine. Many older adults, including those living in retirement homes villanova, worry over the safety of new exercise routines. However, starting out by talking with their doctor or physical therapist can lead to finding a regimen that is both safe and fits with their lifestyle.