How do I keep my skeleton from getting scary?

Aging is normal, losing bone strength doesn’t have to be. In fact, there are several things a person can do to stop or at least slow the deterioration of bone health, a condition called Osteoporosis.

There are several risk factors that would make some people more susceptible to Osteoporosis than others. These factors include aging, family history or side effects of certain medications. However, your lifestyle choices can make the biggest difference in keeping your bones strong and healthy for years to come.

I recommend everyone get regular exercise, especially age-appropriate weight-bearing exercise like walking, swimming or other aerobic activities to maintain your bone strength. In addition, it is important to have the right amount of calcium and vitamin D in your diet to feed your bones the nutrients they need. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to poor bone health.

If you’re concerned about Osteoporosis, talk with your provider about what you should be doing to keep your skeleton strong and healthy. Bone health is important in all phases of life, and it isn’t too late to make important changes to stay in tip-top shape.

Joseph Tritchler is a Family Medicine Physician Assistant at Banner Health Clinic located at 1405 Howell Avenue in Worland. To make an appointment, please call (307) 347-2555.