The best prevention, however, is a long-term commitment to physical activity, good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become fragile and brittle, and can fracture more easily than normal bones. Even minor falls can cause serious fractures. 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over 60 will have a fracture due to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis and fractures are major causes of injury, long-term disability and even death, in older Australians.
Exercise improves health in many ways.
Bones need nourishment and the mechanical stress of physical activity to remain strong and healthy. Daily exercise helps to keep bones and muscles strong, maintain flexibility, and reduces the chances of injury. Bones respond to the amount and type of activity we do. It is good to do different exercises so that a variety of stress is placed on your bones and muscles. People who exercise regularly have greater bone density than people the same age that are inactive.