When it comes to protecting our bones, physical activity is at least as important as nutritional intake. And the type, amount, and timing of physical activity all play a crucial role in structural health. It is well known that as we grow older, our bones become weaker and more brittle, because of reduced density, loss of mass, and deterioration of bone architecture. What is helpful to remember is that even as we age, our bones continue to rebuild themselves. And this bone remodeling is supported by a healthy diet and also regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercise and avoiding long periods of sitting. Other ways to reduce the risk of osteoporosis include working to improve balance, maintaining an optimum weight, and talking with your health care provider about medications you are taking that may impact bone health.
For those of us challenged with back pain, Cathryn Jakobson Ramin’s book CROOKED – Outwitting the Pain Industry and Getting on the Road to Recovery is a “must read.” This book is filled with helpful perspective, tips, and resources. You will also find lots of useful information and additional resources on her website. Among a number of resources/experts mentioned in this book is the work of Professor Stuart McGill from Waterloo University in Canada. Here are links to a couple of his videos … Waterloo’s Dr. Spine and core stability.
It’s Interesting how information we need “finds us” … in my case, this book came to my attention while walking around a Barnes and Noble bookstore a number of months ago. Sometimes this happens to me … when books seem to “fall off the shelf” so to speak to get my attention. After sitting in my “to be read” pile for awhile, I finally got around to reading Ramin’s excellent and helpful book recently. It is so empowering to know there are actions we can take to protect our spine and minimize associated pain issues as we age.
And now I am going to get up and move … and I hope you will also!