Learning to Prevent Osteoporosis

Engaging in physical exercise, not smoking, moderating salt intake, and consuming an adequate amount of calcium are some recommendations to prevent osteoporosis, a skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone strength and increased bone fragility, leading to a higher susceptibility to fractures. In this sense, complications associated with fractures include an increase in morbidity, a higher risk of experiencing new fractures, and a rise in mortality rates. The disease does not have a well-defined onset, and its symptoms are difficult to foresee, as they do not manifest clearly until a fracture occurs that reveals the disease. Prevention Recommendations It is necessary to include physical exercise in daily life, not smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, moderating salt and protein intake, and consuming adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D. A patient may develop the disease due to genetics, age, or other illnesses, so prevention is deemed very important, experts emphasize. In this sense, specialists advise that if someone suspects they may have several risk factors for developing the disease, it is important to communicate this to their doctor. Therefore, the preventive role of the rehabilitation physician in addressing the disease is very important because it helps prevent its occurrence and progression, avoiding the onset of fractures. In the case of a fracture, the doctor will prescribe treatment aimed at helping the patient regain maximum mobility and return to their daily activities as independently as possible. Thus, the professional will focus on ensuring that the patient is not dependent and can continue their normal life without reaching a level of disability that limits them.