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Osteoporosis can become a serious concern as we get older, as it causes bones to get weak or brittle. For those with the condition, a fall or a stumble can lead to a broken bone - and even
coughing or sneezing can lead to injury. However, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. Dr Deborah Benzil, a neurosurgeon at Cleveland Clinic, explained
that exercise plays “a big role” in preventing osteoporosis. She said it doesn’t have to be anything too intensive, and suggested activities like gardening, going for a walk, playing catch,
and swimming or walking in the pool. You could also walk up and down the aisles of your local supermarket, or do some laps at the shopping centre, she advised. Dr Benzil explained: “With
osteoporosis, the exercises that we need are what we call weight-bearing exercises, so while it's great to do exercises when you're on your back or sitting in a chair, they can
build strength, but they're not going to be helping with bone health and bone strength.” By doing activities where you are creating a “little bit of trauma” or pressure on your legs,
you can “promote bone strength”, she said. Prevention is key, because “once you've sustained a fracture related to osteoporosis, your chances of having a second one are ten times
higher”. Dr Benzil added: “Even with all the advances of medications that we have these days, it's really hard to reverse the process. You can stabilise it and get a little bit of the
bone strength back, but prevention really is the key in this disease.” She said if you are concerned about your risk for osteoporosis, it’s best to speak to your doctor. WHAT ARE THE
SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOPOROSIS? An easily broken bone is often one of the first signs that your bones have lost strength, the Royal Osteoporosis Society advises. One of the most common broken
bones caused by the condition is the wrist, which often occurs after putting out an arm to break a fall. Back pain, loss of height over time, and a stooped posture are also signs that you
may be suffering from osteoporosis. Women are more at risk of developing the condition than men, as they lose bone rapidly in the first few years after menopause. Other risk factors include
taking high-dose steroid tablets for more than three months, a family history of the condition, and having inflammatory or hormone-related conditions. If you have a low BMI, have had an
eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia, don’t exercise regularly, and have used medicines that affect bone strength like anti-oestrogen tablets long-term, you could be more at risk.