Understanding Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis refers to severe bone mass loss, leading to a higher risk of fractures.
Bone Density Loss vs. Osteoporosis
- Bone Density Loss: A reduction in bone mass.
- Osteoporosis: A severe form of bone density loss, significantly increasing fracture risk.
Types of Fractures Linked to Osteoporosis
In older adults, fractures such as spine compression and non-traumatic fractures may indicate the presence of osteoporosis. It can be localized, as in disuse osteoporosis (specific to a body part), or systemic, affecting the entire skeleton like metabolic bone diseases. Systemic osteoporosis can be primary or secondary to various conditions.
Primary Forms of Osteoporosis
The two main types of osteoporosis are:
- Senile Type: Associated with aging.
- Postmenopausal Type: Linked to hormone changes after menopause.
Both require different approaches for treatment and management.
Prevention is Key
Osteoporosis is easier to prevent than to treat. The key factors influencing bone mass loss include:
- Decreased physical activity
- Genetics
- Nutrition
- Aging
- Menopause
Among these, physical activity is the only factor we can control.
Why Physical Activity Matters
Bones support muscles, and without regular use, bones lose their density, leading to bone density loss and osteoporosis. Other factors like genetics, aging, and menopause are beyond our control, and nutrition is less of an issue in well-developed regions.
Bone Loss with Aging
As we age, bone mass naturally declines. Once peak bone mass is reached, small defects in bone formation begin to occur, with an average annual bone loss of around 0.7%. This is a normal biological process, affecting men and women alike, with white individuals more prone than black individuals.
Cellular Changes in Aging Bones
Aging impacts bone cells and their extracellular matrix. Older individuals experience a decrease in the proliferation and biosynthetic ability of bone cells, which also become less responsive to growth factors.
Stay Active to Prevent Bone Loss
The best way to prevent osteoporosis is through regular exercise before bone loss occurs.
For the original Korean text, visit here.
If you’re curious about the basics of traditional Korean medicine and health, read the following article:
What Your Sleeping Position Says About Your Health
Learn Why Studying JangSang Medicine is Important.
Frequently Asked but Silly Questions (Foods Good for the Liver??)
Thank you for reading.
