Osteoporosis is the gradual process in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue. They become less dense as tissue is lost and become weak and more prone to fractures. This may be due to a variety of factors and usually occurs during old age. Women are more susceptible to the development of osteoporosis. Women are more susceptible to developing osteoporosis, women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis in their lifetime.
Causes:
Low oestrogen in women: Peak bone mass is reached around the age of 25 to 30 years, when the skeleton has stopped growing and bones are at their strongest and thickest. Oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining bone strength. The process of bones decreasing in density …show more content…
Preventative Measures
Preventative measures for osteoporosis can include:
Supplementing calcium intake or ensuring adequate intake of dietary calcium: calcium plays a vital role in bone maintenance and restoration.
Supplementing Vitamin D intake: Vitamin D assists with calcium absorption and is integral in maintaining bone density. Vitamin D is found only in small amounts in certain food, so vitamin D supplements are often necessary. Regular time in the sun can contribute to healthy levels of vitamin D.
Ensuring regular exercise: Regular physical activity plays an important role in maintaining or improving bone density. Bones become stronger when certain amounts of impact or strain are placed on them. Weight-bearing exercise is particularly important, this may include running or lifting weights.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol and caffeine intake
Treatment Methods
Ensure adequate intake of calcium, Vitamin D and regularly exercise
Stop smoking, reduce alcohol intake and change other lifestyle factors that may negatively impact on bone …show more content…
Cartilage provides a smooth surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the bones. Deterioration of cartilage can lead to degeneration in the joint, causing pain, swelling and problems moving the joint.
Causes
Genetics: Certain genetic factors can increase a person’s risk of developing osteoarthritis. One possibility is a rare defect in collagen production. Collagen is a protein that makes up cartilage. This abnormality can cause osteoarthritis to occur as early as at the age of 20.
Weight: Being overweight or obese can put a significant amount more pressure on the knee and hip joints. Many years of carrying this extra weight can cause the cartilage to wear down faster
Injury and overuse: repetitive motion or injury to joints can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage and the process of developing osteoarthritis. Muscles that support joints that are weak can contribute to altered movement and the gradual break down of