Bone is living tissue that is constantly undergoing a process called remodeling. In remodeling, cells called osteoclasts are breaking down old bone, as cells called osteoblasts are replacing it with new tissue. Many factors can affect the remodeling process and leave you with bones that are less dense and more fragile.
Some factors that affect bone remodeling are:
Regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise helps build muscle, as well as maintain and increase bone strength. Exercise causes the muscle to contract against the bone. This action stresses or stimulates the bone, and the bone becomes stronger and denser. The three main types of exercise are:
In aerobic exercise , you continually move large muscles in the legs, shoulders, and buttocks. This action causes you to breathe more deeply, and your heart to work harder pumping blood, thereby strengthening your heart and lungs. Examples include:
In weight-bearing exercises , your bones and muscles work against gravity, and your feet and legs bear the weight. Your bones adapt to the weight and pull of the muscle during weight-bearing exercise. Examples of weight-bearing exercises include:
Resistance exercises use muscle strength to improve muscle mass and strengthen bone. Examples include:
Before starting any type of exercise program, check with your doctor about any possible medical problems you may have that would limit your exercise program.
RESOURCES:
National Osteoporosis Foundation
http://www.nof.org/
The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
http://www.fitness.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
Healthy Living Unit
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/pau-uap/fitness/
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home.html .
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine website. Available at: http://www.sportsmed.org/tabs/Index.aspx .
Ryan A. The Physician and Sportsmedicine. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 1980.
Last reviewed May 2010 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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