You can do a lot to prevent and treat Osteoporosis. Jefferson Healthcare physical therapist, Dr. Mary Breckel, explains the root causes of this disease, and also provides tips for treatment and prevention.
May 21, 2024
Osteoporosis, often referred to as the silent disease, silently weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. On the To Your Health podcast, Dr. Mary Breckel, a physical therapist at Jefferson Healthcare, delved into the nuances of osteoporosis, its risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.
You can listen to the full episode here.
“Osteoporosis is a condition where the hardness of the bones is basically reduced compared to an otherwise healthy person,” explains Dr. Breckel. This reduction in bone density is a significant concern as it increases the risk of fractures, especially in older adults.
Unlike many health conditions, osteoporosis often doesn’t exhibit noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. Dr. Breckel emphasizes that “it’s really like a silent disease. It does not hurt — your bones don’t suddenly start to hurt when you go from normal to osteoporosis.” Because of this, early detection through a DEXA scan is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications.
Dr. Breckel stresses the importance of proactive measures for bone health, stating, “Maintaining strong bones is vital for overall health and quality of life.” She explains that exercise, particularly weightbearing activities like walking, and strength training exercises are essential. Additionally, Breckel advises, “Ensuring an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D through a balanced diet or supplements is essential for bone health.”
Addressing osteoporosis goes beyond medications. Dr. Breckel advocates for a holistic approach that considers the patient’s overall well-being. She explains, “If someone comes into an office and they’re not being asked about all of their pains and all of their problems and their behaviors, you’re not going to get down to optimizing treatment for osteoporosis.” This is because stress management, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and lifestyle modifications play integral roles in optimizing bone health and mitigating the progression of osteoporosis.
Take Action for Bone HealthInterested in learning more about osteoporosis management and prevention? Dive deeper into the topic by listening to the full podcast episode on the Jefferson Healthcare website.
Osteoporosis may be silent, but with awareness and proactive measures, we can ensure our bones remain resilient and strong for years to come.
Remember, your bones are the framework that supports your body—let’s give them the care and attention they deserve!
Jefferson Healthcare is an award-winning, full-service healthcare organization meeting the care needs of East Jefferson County. Jefferson Healthcare offers inpatient and comprehensive outpatient services including primary and specialty physician care.
