“Silent Killer” Increases Fracture Risk
Currently, osteoporosis has become the second leading cause of death after cancer and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It is also known as the “silent killer” and is the most common chronic disease affecting the skeleton throughout the body.
According to the latest data, over 70 million people in my country suffer from osteoporosis, and approximately 210 million people have subnormal bone mass, placing them at risk for the disease. Clinically, a bone density T-score of -2.5 or less at any site in the lumbar spine or femoral neck is defined as severe osteoporosis, requiring active intervention.
Indeed, osteoporosis can increase the risk of fractures, creating a vicious cycle. Experts point out that decreased bone density and quality, followed by damage to bone microstructure and increased bone brittleness, significantly increase the risk of fractures. Once a fracture occurs, patients require prolonged bed rest, which leads to further loss of muscle strength, joint stiffness, and aggravated osteoporosis, making further fractures more likely.
Can calcium supplementation cure osteoporosis and prevent falls?
Most people believe that calcium supplementation can prevent and treat osteoporosis.
Let’s first discuss how to properly supplement calcium. First, dietary supplementation. Dairy products are the best way to supplement calcium. Ensure daily intake of dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. Soybeans, nuts, and dark vegetables are also rich in calcium. However, patients who already have bone loss, osteoporosis, or have already suffered a fracture need to supplement at least 600 mg of elemental calcium. Adequate vitamin D supplementation can also promote calcium absorption. Regular outdoor exercise and sun exposure promote vitamin D synthesis in the body, further promoting calcium utilization, correcting calcium deficiency, slowing the progression of osteoporosis, and maintaining bone health.
However, calcium supplementation cannot completely prevent falls. After all, osteoporosis isn’t the only factor contributing to falls.
Resistance training strengthens muscles and improves quality.
Therefore, in addition to calcium supplementation, elderly people also need to pay special attention to strengthening and balancing their muscles.
Clinical findings show significant differences in physical and mental health, as well as quality of life, between elderly people who regularly enjoy exercise and those who don’t. Those who are lazy often develop large bellies, weak lower limbs, less leg muscle mass, and often suffer from joint problems, which increase the risk of accidents like falls and fractures.
