After menopause, the risk of fractures can drastically increase for some women. As you approach menopause, you should discuss with your doctor any controllable risk factors you have and other ways to mitigate your risks.
Testing
Bone density scans and risk factor assessments are important in identifying the women most at risk of developing fractures. Your doctor may recommend bone density scans around age 65 or younger if you have certain risk factors. In general, women of European and Asian descent and those who are thin are more likely to develop osteoporosis. A history of certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory arthritis, and the use of corticosteroids can also increase your risk and warrant early bone density scans. If you are considered high-risk, your doctor might recommend treatment with medications to improve bone density. Even women with a low to moderate risk need to engage in lifestyle changes and prevention strategies since having a lower risk does not guarantee you will not develop osteoporosis or fractures.
Lifestyle Modification
Increasing your nutrient intake well before your postmenopausal years is the easiest and most effective strategy for risk reduction. The main nutrients you should increase are calcium and vitamin D, but trace minerals involved in bone strength are critical. Ideally, you will increase your nutrient intake by paying more attention to your diet, but the inclusion of supplements may be necessary. You should consider purchasing a separate vitamin D supplement to be certain you are including enough of this vitamin. Multivitamins, whether those specifically formulated for women over 50 or younger women often contain around 1,000IU of vitamin D. You may need to double this amount to protect your bones.
Other lifestyle changes are engaging in some form of exercise on most days. If you can do any weight-bearing exercises or weight-lifting, this is a good strategy to increase lean body mass and strengthen your bones. Any exercise is better than none, so walking, swimming, or other low-impact cardio is another option. Fall prevention strategies, such as being cautious about the shoes you wear and minimizing areas in your home where falls are more likely to occur, such as rugs, slippery floors, and inside the bathtub can be a protective strategy to reduce your risk of fractures.
Medications
If you have an elevated risk of fractures, there are medications available that can be used to strengthen your bones. Bisphosphonates are a group of medications that may help with bone mineralization or slow bone reabsorption. These medications are prescribed on a weekly or monthly basis. Medications that affect estrogen may be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Since estrogen has a protective benefit, minimizing the drastic reduction in estrogen that occurs after menopause may preserve bone density.
The best way to minimize your risk of fractures is to speak with your doctor about improving your nutrient intake and preserving bone density. Routine screenings, based on your risk factors, are also necessary to catch losses in bone density when they are easier to treat. To learn more about postmenopausal fracture treatments, contact your local medical office.