Three Osteoporosis Myths: Start Building Up Your Bones

Loss of bone density causing weak, porous bones, also known as osteoporosis, is frequently misunderstood. One of the biggest osteoporosis myths is: “You don’t need to worry about it – it’s absolutely normal.” In fact, there are many things you can do to prevent or stop bone loss.

You may be interested to know that larger women lose less bone density than thin ones, which may sound paradoxical.

Check out some of the commonest osteoporosis myths and start building up your bones. Seek medical advice if you think you lose your bone loss.

Elderly people exercising to boost their immune system and prevent osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Myth 1: It Is Normal To Live With Constant Bone Loss

Be informed that bone loss is not inevitable – don’t be taken in by osteoporosis myths. Tried and tested ways of preventing bone loss, amongst other things, include regular exercise, physical therapy, and getting enough vitamins and minerals.

While a healthy diet can give you the right vitamins, there are no short cuts when it comes to exercise. 

Physical activity and exercise help sustain and build up your muscle and bone strength. If you are over 50 you are more at risk of osteoporosis if you lead a sedentary lifestyle. While more women than men develop osteoporosis, it’s a well-established fact that physically active women’s bones are stronger.

Physical therapists dispel osteoporosis myths and work with patients and others to gradually build up their coordination, balance, and strength.  They show you how to exercise safely and give you lots of encouragement along the way.

Myth 2: All older women lose bone density

Another of the many osteoporosis myths is that older women lose bone density. This is not necessarily true and will depend on factors such as diet, family history, and your lifestyle. if you inform yourself of preventative measures, seek advice, and take action, you can avoid losing bone density.

The important thing is to get into the habit of taking exercise seriously from a young age. If you are physically inactive, try changing your lifestyle and taking enjoyment from a regular exercise routine.

Myth 3: There is nothing you can do

It’s a common osteoporosis myth that bone loss will occur anyway, whatever you do.  Group exercise sessions can be fun and motivational.

Organize your life around physical activities whether indoors or outside. Plan your daily activities to include regular push-ups or other weight-bearing exercise.

In fact, you can start losing bone density in your 20s or 30s. So, don’t put off getting into a lifestyle with plenty of fun physical activities.

While physical exercise is vital for healthy bones, don’t forget your mental health. Stress kills, so take action to find stress-busting activities because they are vital for your health and well-being.

It’s a good idea to have some weights at home to keep your bones strong. Vary your exercise routines to make them fun – try dancing or swimming for a change and bust those osteoporosis myths!

If you are a senior who would like to have an access to a gym, physical therapy and also educate yourself on healthy life-style, consider elderly day care centers. Some of them are great at providing all these.

This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.