All about Bones

Bones are living tissues that form the skeleton, providing structure, protecting organs, anchoring muscles, and storing calcium. They continuously remodel through the processes of bone formation and resorption.

Diseases Associated with Bones
1. Osteoporosis: Bones become brittle and fragile due to reduced bone mass.
2. Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
3. Rickets (Children) / Osteomalacia (Adults): Soft bones caused by vitamin D deficiency.
4. Paget’s Disease: Abnormal bone remodeling, leading to deformities.
5. Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis): Bacterial or fungal infections affecting bones.
6. Bone Cancer: Includes primary bone cancers (e.g., osteosarcoma) and secondary (metastatic).
7. Fractures: Breaks or cracks in bones caused by trauma or stress.
8. Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine.
9. Bone Spurs: Extra bone growth often linked to arthritis.

Symptoms of Bone Diseases
• Persistent pain in bones or joints.
• Swelling or tenderness around a bone or joint.
• Difficulty moving or stiffness in joints.
• Noticeable deformities in bones or posture.
• Frequent fractures from minor injuries.
• Fatigue, muscle weakness, or weight loss (in some cases).
• Signs of infection: fever, redness, and warmth over the affected area.

How to Prevent Bone Problems
1. Nutrition:
• Get enough calcium (1,000-1,200 mg/day for adults) from dairy, leafy greens, or fortified foods.
• Ensure adequate vitamin D (sunlight, fortified foods, or supplements).
2. Exercise:
• Engage in weight-bearing and resistance exercises (e.g., walking, running, strength training).
3. Lifestyle Choices:
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on bones and joints.
4. Regular Screenings:
• Bone density tests (especially for women over 50).
5. Injury Prevention:
• Use proper gear during sports.
• Create a safe home environment to prevent falls.

How to Help Bones
• Treat Deficiencies: Take supplements if calcium or vitamin D levels are low.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthen surrounding muscles for better bone support.
• Pain Management: Use ice packs, heat therapy, or medications (under a doctor’s guidance).
• Braces/Supports: For conditions like scoliosis or fractures.
• Medications: Bisphosphonates or other treatments for osteoporosis.

When to Visit a Doctor
• Persistent bone or joint pain.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth over a bone.
• Frequent or unexplained fractures.
• Noticeable deformities or changes in posture.
• Difficulty walking or using affected limbs.
• Signs of infection (fever, severe pain, drainage).
• Family history of bone diseases.

Seeing a doctor early can prevent further complications and ensure appropriate treatment.