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Last Updated on May 4, 2023 by Aditi Gangal
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. In people with osteoporosis, bone loss occurs at a faster rate than bone formation, resulting in a decrease in bone mass and bone density. As a result, the bones become fragile and can break more easily, even with minor injuries or falls. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss whether people with osteoporosis can go to the gym.
Can people with osteoporosis do exercise?
Yes, but under professional guidance. It is often believed that exercise is bad for osteoporosis patients as it can cause bones to become more porous and weaker and increase the risk of fractures. However, evidence has shown that exercise can actually help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in people with osteoporosis.
Exercise can have a positive impact on osteoporosis in several ways. It can improve bone density, strengthen muscles, improve overall health, and increase flexibility to reduce the risk of falls and fractures.
Which exercises for people with osteoporosis must perform?
It is difficult to recommend exercises that can benefit every person with osteoporosis. Also, it is difficult to suggest whether people with osteoporosis should do high-impact exercises. No evidence confirms whether every individual will receive similar results after performing high-impact exercises. Such exercises are often considered unsafe for bone density.
While it is true that high-impact exercises such as running or jumping can increase the risk of fractures, low-impact exercises, such as walking, cycling, and swimming, can be safe and effective for people with osteoporosis. Low-impact exercises can improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of falls. Evidence also shows that people with osteoporosis can play sports, go to the gym, as weight-bearing exercises such as strength training, resistance exercises, and weightlifting can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in people with osteoporosis. But people must perform these exercises with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before starting any exercise program. They can help you develop an individualized exercise plan that is safe and effective for you.
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