While female athletes are working hard to get into great shape and tone their bodies, they may be putting themselves at a higher risk of osteoporosis. This is particularly true of older athletic women who may be going through menopause or those who have an early onset of this condition. As a result, it is important to understand this concern and how to avoid it.
Menopause Can Cause Severe Osteoporosis
Athletic women are already at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis because of the fact that exercise causes a decrease in estrogen. This lack of estrogen is directly linked to an increase in osteoporosis risk. Unfortunately, there is no instance more damaging to a woman's estrogen level than menopause. As a result, athletic women who go through this stage are likely to experience early symptoms of osteoporosis.
No matter how strong their bodies and healthy their diet, these risk factors make it more likely that they will fall victim to this bone problem. Even worse, their exercise routines may also increase their risk of developing serious fractures while they perform their favorite exercises.
Osteoporosis Can Lead To Increased Fractures
Osteoporosis can become a serious concern as time passes. It can also be complicated by performing exercises or activities that are strenuous. For example, an athletic woman who plays basketball regularly may find that jumping and landing may cause serious fractures.
This bone damage can be difficult to manage and cause severe pain. For a serious female athlete, it may be impossible for them to fully recover their pre-injury status. Couple these problems with the other symptoms of menopause and it can be a very traumatic situation.
How To Manage This Problem
While it is true that exercises does decrease the estrogen in an athletic woman's body, it can also help build up stronger bones and maintain the skeletal system more effectively. The regular intake of vitamin D during this exercise is also essential. It can help fight off many of the symptoms of this disease and make it easier for an active woman to recover from it fully.
It is also important to talk to a doctor about medical treatment for this problem. Typically, this includes various medications that eliminate pain and increase a person's bone density and strength. For an athletic woman who plans on remaining active and athletic after menopause, these steps may keep them from the kind of pain that would otherwise keep them from working out.
Contact a medical office like Radius for more information and assistance.
