Symptoms & Treatments

Osteoporosis

Many of the changes which the body undergoes with aging were once considered inevitable. All the negative effects of aging can not be stopped, but there is an increasing volume of evidence which points out that many of the changes can be slowed dramatically through proper diet and exercise.

Orthopaedic Associates of Southern Delaware is committed to the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. We continue to offer, at no charge, heel-ultrasound screening, which may suggest underlying osteoporosis and the need for additional studies. We perform these screenings, as well as appropriate counseling, in our offices. And we are available to provide this service at community health fairs.

Fifteen years ago, bent backs, hunched shoulders, and falls that led to broken hips were once thought to be events that just happened as people aged. More recently it has been discovered that calcium loss leads to weakness of bones. This is known as osteoporosis. These symptoms can at least be partially linked to lifestyle. As such, this means that you can do something about it ahead of time, and the sooner the better. Your risk of developing osteoporosis can be decreased by getting enough dietary calcium and vitamin D on a daily basis. Weight-bearing exercises performed regularly also increase calcium stores in the bone.

The recommended dietary allowance for calcium is at least 800 milligrams a day. The best sources are low fat or skim milk which provides up to 300 milligrams a cup. Other dairy products, such as cheese, produce similar amounts. Canned sardines and salmon with bones have up to 400 milligrams per four ounces. Raw oysters also provide a moderate amount of calcium. Dark green vegetables, almonds, peanuts, apricots, and most beans provide moderate amounts of calcium. Vitamin D is produced by your skin after exposure to full sun light for fifteen to twenty minutes twice a week. Regular outdoor exercise is a good way to get the necessary sun exposure, and the exercise also helps in making stronger bones.

The most effective exercise routines are weight-bearing activities that include walking, jogging, hiking, tennis, aerobic dancing, and lifting weights. Non-weight-bearing activities, which are less effective, include swimming, cycling, rowing, and stretching calisthenics. Regardless of the exercise routine, the most important thing is to just "DO IT."

When more extensive care is needed, OASD will provide it. Be sure to review our Osteoporosis Services page.