FAQs About Osteoporosis
How can I prevent falls that might break a bone?
If your bones are fragile, a fall that ordinarily wouldn’t hurt you can cause a serious and debilitating fracture. That makes it essential to do all you can to prevent falls if you have osteoporosis.
You can reduce your risk by safety-proofing your home. Make sure all carpets and rugs have skid-proof backing, remove clutter that could trip you, avoid walking in stocking feet on slick wood or tile floors, install grab bars in your shower and use a nonskid rubber mat in the tub. You can also help keep yourself safe by avoiding medications that cause dizziness or loss of balance, limiting alcohol, having your hearing and vision checked, and using a cane or walker if you are unsteady on your feet.
What type of research is being done on osteoporosis?
Researchers throughout the U.S. and the world are studying osteoporosis in an effort to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, treat and monitor the course of the disease.
A few of the many avenues of research include:
* Efforts to identify genes that increase susceptibility to osteoporosis
* The possible role of omega--3[Is this the same thing as omega-3 fatty acid? I’ve never seen this before.] fatty acids in place of HRT for osteoporosis treatment
* Dietary factors associated with bone loss or its prevention in men
* The optimal level of vitamin D for preventing bone loss and fractures
* Studies to better understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of bone formation and bone loss
* Safer, easier and less expensive tests for bone density
