Exercise and Osteoporosis

Preview this chapter:

Exercise and Osteoporosis, Page 1 of 1

< Previous page | Next page > /docserver/preview/fulltext/9781681083216/chapter-10-1.gif

Osteoporosis is increasingly a global disease in which the remodeling process (i.e., replacement of new bone for the old) results in an excessive loss in bone mass to the point that they fracture easily. Although weak bones are more common in older men and women, it can begin in childhood. The risk of developing osteoporosis and the risk of falling and susceptibility to fractures can be reduced by eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. In fact, regular exercise is believed to be the most important factor to increase or maintain bone mass density (BMD). The mechanical forces placed on the skeletal system during exercise stimulate bone size, shape, and strength by increasing BMD at weight bearing sites to promote bone mass.