Healthy Aging: Top Ways to Avoid Bone Problems as You Get Older

Maintaining strong and healthy bones is important as we age. Bone density naturally decreases over time, leading to bone problems. However, adopting certain lifestyle habits may support bone health as you get older.

The Role of Exercise

Regular physical activity plays a significant role in bone health. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, dancing, and strength training, can help stimulate bone formation and maintain bone density. These types of activities put stress on your bones, which signals the body to build more bone tissue. Consulting a health care professional or physical therapist can help determine the most appropriate exercise regimen for your individual needs and abilities.

Nutrition for Bone Strength

Adequate intake of certain nutrients is also vital for bone health. Calcium is a key mineral that provides the building blocks for strong bones. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium effectively. Sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which can also be obtained through certain foods and supplements. It's advisable to discuss your dietary needs with your doctor or a registered dietitian to ensure you are getting sufficient calcium and vitamin D. If you're not sure where to begin, explore calcium scoring in Sugar Land.

Fall Prevention Strategies

Falls can pose a significant risk to bone health, especially in older adults. Implementing fall prevention strategies can help reduce the likelihood of fractures. This includes ensuring your home environment is safe by removing tripping hazards, using adequate lighting, and installing grab bars in bathrooms. Regular vision and hearing checks are also important, as changes in these senses can increase the risk of falls. Furthermore, exercises that improve balance and coordination can be beneficial.

The Importance of Bone Screenings

Regular bone screenings can play a crucial role in monitoring bone health. Bone density tests, such as DEXA scans, can measure bone mineral density and help identify potential issues early. Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital First Colony offers services like calcium scoring in Sugar Land, which can provide valuable information about bone health. Consulting your primary care physician or an orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land can help determine the appropriate timing and frequency of bone screenings based on your individual risk factors.

By incorporating these lifestyle habits and considering regular bone health assessments, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining strong bones as you age.

If you're looking for orthopedic surgeons in Sugar Land who can help you maintain bone and joint health, explore treatment options from the doctors at Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital First Colony.

To learn more about our orthopedic services in Sugar Land or to schedule an appointment, find an orthopedic physician who's perfect for you.