Hello, Today I am talking about bones, especially weak ones, called osteoporosis. It affects two out of four men and three out of five women, and that probably includes you. There are often no symptoms until tragedy strikes, often a sudden sore back as vertebral bones crush, making your shorter! It invariably worsens.

It is diagnosed by a bone mineral examination called DEXA, usually ordered by the doctor. Simple measures can help prevent it from worsening. A high daily calcium intake of around 1800 mg is often advised. Caltrate 600 mg tablets maybe taken 2-3 times a day.

Natural calcium sources include 2-3 serves of dairy products. A serve equals a glass of milk or tub of yoghurt, preferably low fat. Avoid activities which overtax the back, such as heavy lifting, bending, pushing or pulling heavy objects with a bent back. Try and avoid falls. Check the floor for loose mats, cords, slippery paper, and outside for sticks, stones and pavement cracks.

Doctors often prescribe Fosamax or sometimes an annual infusion of zoledronate into the vein at the elbow. A repeat DEXA examination maybe ordered annually to monitor progress. Women are often prescribed courses of hormone therapy to help check calcium loss. Keep in touch with your GP.

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