Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis. How do we know whether our bones are healthy or not? We can’t see them like we can our skin, or listen to them like the heart or lungs. Bone density scans are one way to look inside bone, but we rarely get a bone density test. So then, what can Nature tell us about our health. And it turns out, there are many outward signs and symptoms of osteoporosis that may shed light on the health of your bones.
Hints from Nature
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis. They refer to these signs and symptoms as “hints” from Nature. They certainly aren’t definitive or anything to scare you into thoughts of osteoporosis, but if you’re the type of person who’s planning to be active and strong well into old age like I am, it doesn’t hurt to assess your bones from the outside.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis. Let’s take a look at some signs and symptoms that may be indicators of early bone loss. Investigating these tips early on may save you from unwanted treatment or therapy down the line and offer you the freedom of strength and movement for the rest of your life.
Do you have signs of early osteoporosis?
1. Receding Gums
So, receding gums are quite common and can be attributed to a variety of factors, one of which is bone loss. Also, our teeth are connected to the jaw bone and if the jaw is losing bone, gums can recede. In studies of women, jaw bone loss has also been associated with lower bone mineral density. Such as, in areas such as the vertebral bodies of the lumbar spine.
The standard panoramic x-rays during your visits to the dentist. In addition, can provide a well-informed dentist with an opportunity to screen you for bone loss. So ask your dentist to share any information. Also, any insight he or she may glean from your exam and x-rays regarding your bone health.
2. Decreased Grip Strength
As we grow older, one of the surest ways to keep the risk of fracture to a minimum is through fall prevention. And for that, good balance, overall muscle strength, and grip strength are fundamental. Besides, in a recent study of postmenopausal women. Here, handgrip strength was the most important physical test factor related to overall bone mineral density. But, fortunately, improving handgrip strength and overall muscle strength is within your reach, no matter what your age.
3. Weak and Brittle Fingernails
It is often observed that after patients start a program for better bone health. In this case, their fingernails grow stronger and healthier right along with their bones. Therefore, they always consider it a good sign when nail strength improves. Also, recent science suggests this nail-bone health observation is indeed valid. However, spending time in water, exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, digging in the garden and/or other manual work. For example, can be tough on your nails, so take these into consideration as you assess your own nails.
4. Cramps, Muscle Aches and Bone Pain
As we get older, many of us accept aches and pains as a part of life. But these symptoms may indicate that your bones are in need of some support. Muscle and bone pain is often overlooked, but well-documented symptom of severely inadequate vitamin D, an important bone builder. According to experts, vitamin D deficiency has reached alarming proportions. So then, researchers worldwide have been evaluating its association with muscle pain.
In addition, cramps are another symptom to pay attention to. There can be a number of mechanisms causing leg and foot cramps, but leg cramps that occur at night. Are often a signal that your calcium, magnesium, and/or potassium blood levels have dropped too low, during the night. So then, if this situation were to persist over time, excessive bone loss could occur.
5. Height Loss
Losing height is common as we age and there are many precursors to it, including poor posture and vertebral fractures. But, poor posture may not mean you have bone loss, however, And it can indicate weakening of muscles around your spine. Also, since bone and muscle work in one unit and typically gain and lose strength in synchrony. Similarly, it’s likely that a loss in muscle is connected to an eventual loss in bone.
6. Low Overall Fitness
Osteoporosis has been linked to overall decline in physical fitness, as measured by aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and even balance. Hence, if your general fitness declines, it is likely that bone mass will also decline. But, instead of feeling scared or worried by these changes. Consequently, take the opportunity to put more attention on your personal health and longevity by taking care your bones. Even women who have been sedentary their whole lives can make significant gains, including better physical coordination. Especially, when they undertake a moderate, self-paced exercise program designed for their needs. And even people in their 80s and 90s have the ability to adapt and respond to both endurance and strength training.
In Conclusion
These possible symptoms can be from many things, they do not automatically mean you have osteoporosis. But they are good health indicators, that you should be aware of. And in the event you have concerns you need to get a doctors diagnosis to confirm any problems.
Important Note *
Remember that everyone is different, and it is ultimately YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find what your body responds to. So please do your due diligence before trying anything new, including getting Medical Advice to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
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