Five Risk Factors of Osteoporosis You Need to Know About

Are you concerned that you are more prone to developing osteoporosis as you age?   Do you worry that your medical history or genetics have predisposed you to developing bone disorders?  Osteoporosis is one of the most common degenerative bone disorders that cause many people to have weakened bones as they age.  It is most common in women.  As an orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary, we work with many patients that suffer from the symptoms of osteoporosis so they can avoid bone fractures and breaks.  These are some of the risk factors that you need to consider when you have osteoporosis to avoid accidents and injuries.

Family History and Genetics

Although this is one factor that you cannot change, it is still important to be aware of your predisposition to this bone disorder.  Those who have a family history of osteoporosis are more likely to develop it as they also age.  Women are more prone to osteoporosis than men, so you should check with the females in your family to see their medical history.  

Body Frame

Your body frame also impacts your chances of developing the disorder.  Those who have a smaller or more petite body frame are more prone to developing osteoporosis.  This should not be confused with body weight, as that is a separate factor that does not impact osteoporosis.  

Hormones

Not surprising, decreased levels of estrogen and testosterone will cause a decrease in your bone density, resulting in osteoporosis.  This is another reason why age and gender are factors, because women typically develop symptoms of osteoporosis after going through menopause.  Also, an overactive thyroid may cause decreased bone density, so it is important to check on your thyroid hormone levels as you age.

Diet

It is important to be aware of your nutrition, especially the minerals and vitamins in your everyday meals, to avoid the symptoms of osteoporosis.  You should be eating the dietary recommended values of vitamin C and calcium to boost the health and strength of your bones.  This is something that you should be doing all through your life, not just as you age, to increase the density and strength of your bones.

Lifestyle

There are important changes that you can make to your life to also support your bone health.  These changes are important for your overall health and well-being.  For example, you should aim to get daily exercise and stay active.  Living a sedentary lifestyle can cause your bones to degenerate quickly, which is preventable with more fitness.  Also, avoid the use of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol to fuel your body with healthy nutrition instead.

These are some of the risks that many people suffering from osteoporosis need to consider to prevent falls, accidents, and injuries.  A simple tripping accident can cause a bone to fracture or break, which can lead to extensive surgeries or treatments.  If you are concerned about the state of your bones as you age, contact our expert orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary to schedule your appointment today.