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Women’s Health – Part 1

Women’s Health – Part 1

By Dr. Virginia Nsitem
Pride Health Columnist

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease of low bone mass or density. Some studies have shown that osteoporosis affects men and women of all races. But older white and Asian women are at highest risk for developing osteoporosis. As your body slowly loses bone mass, you may not experience any signs or symptoms of osteoporosis until a bone fracture. Osteoporosis is sometimes called the “silent thief” because it steals bone mass steadily without any signs of the disease.

Symptoms

Osteoporosis leads to fragile bones that are easily fractured. The hip, spine (vertebrae), and wrist bones are commonly fractured due to osteoporosis. Some studies have shown that fractures from osteoporosis are more common than heart attack, stroke, and breast cancer all together! Approximately 30% of women will suffer a fracture from osteoporosis in their life.

Other symptoms of osteoporosis include decreased flexibility and poor posture. A fracture in the mid back (thoracic spine) can also lead to poor posture, a rounded back, and a hump in the back. The bone fractures, lack of flexibility, and poor posture can also lead to pain in the spine and joints.

Treatment and management

  1. Get a proper diagnosis by your physician. You may be asked to take a Bone Mineral Density test to determine if you are at risk from a fracture from osteoporosis.
  2. You may be prescribed a special brace if you have suffered a fracture in your spine.
  3. You may be prescribed medication by your physician to help increase bone density.
  4. You may be advised to increase the Vitamin D and Calcium in your diet to help with bone building.
  5. See your chiropractor for a comprehensive rehabilitation program to reduce pain and stimulate bone growth. Your program may include weight-bearing exercises such as walking, strengthening exercises with weights, stretching exercises, balance techniques to reduce the risk of falling, and posture exercises for the spine.

Dr. Virginia Nsitem is a chiropractor specializing in laser therapy for muscle, joint and nerve injuries, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences in Canada. She may be reached at (905) 275-4993, or by email at totalhealth@bellnet.ca.

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