Living With Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis doesn't affect only your bones. It can leave you feeling depressed, anxious, or afraid. You may worry about breaking a bone or losing your independence. Or perhaps you're overwhelmed by pain or upset by changes in your appearance.... Full Answer

Someone with osteoporosis should continue to take vitamin D and calcium throughout her life. Foods that are rich in these are milk, yogurt, cheese, dark green leafy vegetables and some cereals fortified with vitamin D. An osteoporotic also should... Full Answer

In some patients who have taken certain osteoporosis medications, a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (also called ONJ) has been reported. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a rare but serious condition that can cause severe damage to the... Full Answer

Fractures of the spinal column and hip are the most common osteoporosis problems, and hip fractures can be life-threatening. The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that an average of 24 percent of patients 50 years and older with hip... Full Answer

Women with osteoporosis will want to be especially careful in choosing activities that won't overstress weakened bones. Low-impact aerobics, exercise classes in water, and walking are ideal. Light weight training is very effective in preserving... Full Answer

In general, stair climbing is a good weight-bearing exercise for people with osteoporosis, especially those who are unable to run because of pain and stiffness. Studies have found that stair-climbing machines are as effective as running as an... Full Answer

Many people have the mistaken notion that weight-bearing exercises means exercises that are high impact and high intensity. In fact, you don’t have to put additional weight on your bones to stimulate bone growth. Low-impact aerobics, for... Full Answer

Low-impact aerobics are an excellent way to put additional weight on your bones to stimulate bone growth. This exercise also increases muscle strength with a lower chance of injury.  Full Answer

The ideal program is 30 to 40 minutes of weight-bearing exercise at least three to four times a week -- more if you are able. Weight-bearing exercises are anything that puts pressure or resistance on the bones. This includes walking, biking,... Full Answer

It is estimated that one-third of all persons 60 years old and older suffer falls each year - falls that lead to painful, debilitating fractures. It makes sense that if you have experienced one fracture and have thinning bones, it takes less... Full Answer