1. Address the Symptoms
Holistic medicine is a good source for the treatment of osteoporosis, especially if the cause is known. This bone disease hits post-menopausal women harder than men and seniors more frequently than younger people. Drugs, however, may not be necessary to manage the disease. If you've been diagnosed with it and are experiencing poor posture or pain, you can get to the heart of the problem with gentle stretching.
The effects of gravity are more extreme in osteoporosis patients. Stooping can lead to chronic back or joint discomfort. Stretching the soft tissue that surrounds bones that have been weakened increases flexibility and reduces pain. Gentle stretches can be performed lying down on the floor or a bed, so that they are easy even for those in pain. Muscles lengthen most readily when warm, so safe stretching is best following exercise, a warm bath or use of a hot pack. Consult a physical therapy specialist or doctor for a series of stretches within your particular boundaries.
2. Feed Your Bones
Diet has a direct correlation to bone growth, and natural medicine recognizes the importance of what we eat and ingest. Because our bodies may lose the ability to utilize calcium fully as we age, making calcium readily available through diet is a must. Calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese, almonds, broccoli and cauliflower are good choices. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists daily recommended amounts of calcium and common food sources for patients of various ages.
3. Address Causes Other Than Aging
Some natural and abnormal health conditions other than simple aging can affect how well the body absorbs calcium. Menopause, hypertension, kidney disease and eating disorders can all lead to osteoporosis if untreated. If you know or suspect that you have one of these conditions, work with your doctor. Solutions for estrogen loss, high blood pressure or nutrient depletion associated with other health issues can restore bone strength or at least halt the progression of disease.
Holistic solutions may include adding soy products or reducing salt in the diet. Stress management may also be indicated. Your doctor or naturopath can suggest other non-drug treatments for osteoporosis, depending upon your total health history and current physical condition.
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