Non-Medicated Treatments for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a degenerative bone disease that affects approximately 1/3 of Americans over the age of 60. A number of bone strengthening drugs are available on the market to help with the treatment of osteoporosis, but in addition to these drug therapies, some alternative non-medicated treatments are available which can help to strengthen bones and lessen the impact of osteoporosis.

Perform Weight-Bearing Exercise

• Engaging in certain forms of exercise can help strengthen bones and prevent the bone degeneration associated with osteoporosis. Because of bone weakness, it is important to select exercises carefully and not put excess pressure on the bones. Consult with a physician to design an exercise plan that will help strengthen your bones without putting you at risk. In general, the weight-bearing exercises tend to be best to make bones stronger. These exercises include jogging, climbing stairs, dancing, lifting weights, hiking or walking, aerobics and racquetball. The weight bearing exercises force your bones to become stronger by placing tension and pressure on them, causing them to formulate new bone. For those with more advanced osteoporosis, some of these activities might be too much pressure on your bones, leading to fractures or breaks. This is why consulting with your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program is essential.

Diet

• A healthy diet can help build strong bones and minimize the bone degeneration associated with osteoporosis. Vitamin supplements, including zinc, magnesium, calcium, manganese, vitamin D, vitamin K12 and omega 3, are also recommended.

Eliminate Negative Risk Factors

• Certain actions and chemicals can make osteoporosis worse. Stress can inhibit bone repair and formation, while maintaining a calm, relaxed and healthy attitude can help facilitate bone repair and formation of strong bone. Allergens and chemicals also may inhibit the bodies natural ability to produce new bone and repair damaged bone structure.