Get the Facts about Osteoporosis

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Osteoporosis is a condition where your body either loses too much bone, doesn’t make enough or both. With nearly a quarter of all the bones in your body residing in your feet, we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle feel this is an important subject for our patients to be informed about. Below are some facts about osteoporosis and building strong bones.

FACT: It’s never too early or too late to take steps to strengthen your bones. Although osteoporosis is most prevalent in adults age 50 and over, you can make choices that will build stronger bones throughout your life. It’s important to find out how much calcium you should be getting every day and to talk to your physician about other risk factors you have for developing osteoporosis. Even if you are over 50, there are still ways you can significantly reduce your chances for weak bones and to work to strengthen your bones if you have been diagnosed.

FACT: It’s not just about milk. When we hear bones, we often think calcium. And while being deficient in calcium is one of the major causes of osteoporosis, there are many other factors that can raise your risk. These include:

  • Family history of low bone density

  • Having a small, thin body type

  • Smoking

  • Drinking alcohol in excess

  • Certain medications including some steroids, chemotherapy medications, lithium, some anti-seizure drugs and thyroid hormones

  • Other medical conditions: autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, celiac disease, breast and prostate cancer, kidney and liver disease

FACT: Lifestyle choices impact bone health. Eating a healthy diet that is full of lots and fruits and vegetables and helps you maintain a healthy weight can ensure your bones get all the nutrients they need and that excess stress from being overweight is avoided. Regular exercise—both weight bearing and muscle strengthening goes a long way in improving bone health.

If you are experiencing lower extremity pain that is preventing you from exercising and being active, make an appointment at our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can diagnose and treat your foot or ankle problem.

FACT: Being proactive can help you avoid debilitating fractures. Many patients don’t discover they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. Talk to your doctor about whether a bone density test is appropriate for you.

If you have more questions about osteoporosis or other disorders that can affect the functioning of your feet, contact us.

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