1. Improve Your Posture at Home and Work
Many patients with osteoporosis experience stooping or other posture changes as they lose bone density. This shift can lead to ongoing pain and increase the chance of falls and fractures. A simple natural remedy to alleviate this condition is to improve your sitting and sleep support at home.
First, take a holistic approach to your condition. Notice how you sit in your favorite chair. Is your body tilted to one side? Are your head and neck comfortable? Is your back properly supported? If you use loose cushions to stabilize yourself or the chair is broken or not level, you may just need new seating. If you are uncomfortable in any position, ergonomic aids such as a firm lumbar pillow or angled foot rest may help. Improving your seated posture will make you feel better and take excess stress off your bones.
You can use the same back-saving concepts at work, as well as taking the time during the workday to stretch and walk. At night, try cervical pillows, knee bolsters, supports for side sleepers or alternative sleep posture aids.
2. Maintain Calcium and Vitamin D Levels
You may be able to circumvent drug therapy by maintaining nutrient levels that aid bone growth. Eat a lot of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, salmon, almonds, broccoli and cauliflower. Eat fewer phosphorus-rich foods, such as red meat, and drink alcohol and caffeine in moderation, to optimize calcium absorption. Get your share of sunlight, fortified milk or multivitamins to keep vital vitamin D in supply. If you need additional calcium or vitamin D, your doctor will let you know how much to take.
3. Use Prescription Medications Wisely
Post-menopausal women or osteoporosis patients with other hormonal needs may still need to take prescription medications to regulate their bone health. While estrogen replacement is no longer suggested as a treatment, many of the new drugs on the market today mimic the action of estrogen on calcium absorption and maintenance. These compounds may have extreme side effects. By following dosages and dosing methods closely, your medications will not interfere with your other holistic treatments.
Alternative osteoporosis care means the integration of necessary drug therapies with natural steps toward disease management. By sharing all of your self-care strategies with your health care practitioner, you'll arrive at the best possible way to treat your bone condition.
