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What Causes Hip Fractures?

Most people associate hip fractures with a slip and fall. In this scenario, people injure the hip by slipping on something and landing on the body’s side. The harsh and sudden impact causes a fracture in the thighbone. Unfortunately, hip fractures lead to other complications, including death. After undergoing surgery, some people never fully recover. However, slip and falls aren’t the only reasons for a broken hip.

Contributing factors

Certain risk factors make people more susceptible to hip fractures. The factors are:

  • Medical conditions
  • Medications
  • Alcohol use
  • Age
  • Gender

Women are more susceptible to fractures because menopause interrupts estrogen production, the hormone responsible for bone development. Likewise, people with certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or an overactive thyroid, are more likely to experience hip fractures. A doctor can help patients identify risk factors and create a plan to help minimize the occurrence of fractures. But if patients are vigilant, these issues can be prevented.

1.Undergo Screening

Scientists have created a test, called the bone mineral density exam, to determine if a patient has osteoporosis or will develop the disease in the future. To perform the test, doctors x-ray the patient to measure calcium levels. Doctors advise people over the age of 65 to get the exam, but patients with a family history of osteoporosis or chronic kidney disease are good candidates.

2.Strive for a healthier diet

Lack of calcium and vitamin D contribute to bone decay. The body needs these minerals to develop new bone and deficiencies of either mineral can lead to disease. One of the best ways to increase vitamin D production is to go outside. The body uses sunlight to stimulate vitamin D production and at least 15 minutes of contact does the trick. Patients should also eat foods rich in Vitamin D or calcium such as kale, broccoli, and salmon. But don’t forget potassium and protein! Both contribute to optimal bone health.

3.Exercise

Regular physical activity staves off a host of health problems, including hip fractures. High impact exercises increase bone density and muscle mass, preventing fractures. Jogging, stair climbing, and hiking are some high-impact activities that improve bone health. Low impact exercises with elliptical machines and treadmills also help.

4.Watch out for safety hazards

Although people cannot control the environment, monitoring the surroundings can help prevent major accidents. For instance, placing a no-slip bathmat in the shower can prevent nasty falls. People should also make a habit of removing debris from walkways. Simple actions can make a world of difference.

5.Take supplements

For patients that aren’t receiving enough nutrients from a diet, supplements can be a great alternative. Doctors recommend at least 1,000 mg of calcium per day for men and women under the age of 50. Supplements can be found at local health food stores and are easy to incorporate into a daily routine.

Tying it together

As always, consult a physician to learn more about preventing hip fractures and BMD testing. Preventing bone loss is the best way to avoid hip fracture and early screening for osteoporosis is typically recommended by physicians.

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What Does COPD Do To The Body?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lung’s airways, making breathing difficult. COPD leads to two other conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis restricts the airways and causes excess mucus buildup. Emphysema is a disease that destroys the lung’s air sacs. People with COPD often have to deal with complications from either one of these diseases.

The importance of exercise

Activity is vital for people with COPD because a lack of physical activity can affect a person’s health and overall quality of life. COPD symptoms can even become worse. To start, COPD patients should enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program with a team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and exercise specialists. These professionals help people with COPD learn special breathing techniques and exercises, and develop treatment plans to make life with COPD easier. Pulmonary rehabilitation begins with an assessment from a therapist to determine different things about the patient, like blood oxygen levels. Programs are conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, or the patient’s home.

Stretching for people with COPD

People with COPD will benefit from lots of stretching. Stretching helps with breath control and body flexibility. Patients should start stretching for at least 10-15 minutes every day. Experts also believe that stretching before and after exercise is good for the body. Stretching is something that can be done anywhere at any time of day. Try some stretching exercises to prepare for more intense activities.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercises are great for people with COPD because these activities increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart muscle. Walking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Patients can do this for 15-20 minutes a day to get the blood flowing. Another great exercise is cycling. Patients can use a stationary bike or a regular bike. Swimming can also be beneficial. If an outdoor pool isn’t an option, patients can go to a local sports club and use those pool facilities. A good fitness regimen for those with COPD will incorporate aerobic exercises a few times a week.

Try some resistance training

Essentially, resistance training is weight lifting. However, people do not need to start with a heavy load. Lightweight dumbbells or exercise bands work just as well. Resistance training can be done multiple times throughout the week.

Taking the next step

Anyone interested in pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises, or more information about COPD should consult a doctor, physical therapist, or a respiratory therapist. These healthcare professionals are a wealth of knowledge and resources for leading a healthy life with COPD.