Osteoporosis Canada recommends everyone over age 65 have routine bone density tests. Start routine testing earlier if you are at increased risk for broken bones. Use the FRAX tool to predict your risk of having a fracture related to osteoporosis (link in this resource).

Age, sex, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, family history, drinking alcohol, and smoking are a few risk factors for the development of osteoporosis. Help prevent osteoporosis by consuming a diet rich in calcium, regularly exercising, getting enough vitamin D, and not smoking.

If you have osteoporosis, it is recommended to exercise regularly. A physical therapist or kinesiologist can give you advice on what type of exercise is best for you. You should do a combination of strength, posture, balance, and aerobic exercise.

Pain in the front of the shoulder can be a tendon injury, often from overuse or wear and tear. Until your symptoms get better, try to avoid lifting heavy items and reaching motions. Frist line treatment options also include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. For more severe cases, physical therapy and surgery may help.

Of all the joints in the body, the knee is at the greatest risk of injury and arthritis. Treatment for pain includes ice, stretching, and strength exercises. Try to avoid activities that put strain on your knees.

Chronic muscle pain and tenderness are symptoms of fibromyalgia. There are medications to help ease symptoms. Also try exercise, relaxation therapy, tai chi, or yoga.

Arthroscopic knee surgery involves small incisions to remove damaged tissue. This procedure helps provide short term pain relief, but not long term benefits and there are risks involved. Researchers do not recommend it for middle aged or older adults.

Tendinopathy refers to injuries to the tendons. Age, repetitive movements and certain medical conditions make you more susceptible. To prevent elbow tendinopathy, take breaks from repetitive movements and take care with lifting and gripping objects. Read more information about causes, treatment and prevention in this resource.

Make sure that you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D, stay physically active and do not smoke to help prevent osteoporosis.

Paget disease of bone growth disorder and can lead to pain in the bone and nearby joints. Causes are unknown and most people have no symptoms. Treatment includes medications (such as bisphosphonates) or surgery.

Osteoporosis causes bones to become thin, weak and brittle. Women are at a higher risk after menopause because of lower levels of estrogen. Prevent osteoporosis with vitamin D, calcium, exercise and not smoking. Some medications can also help.

Not enough vitamin D in your diet, not enough exposure to the sun, and certain medical conditions can lead to vitamin D deficiency. This can be treated with supplements - side effects are not common.

Talk to your doctor if you have twisted your ankle and your foot becomes swollen, painful and can no longer hold any weight. You may have a fractured ankle, where one or more bones of the ankle joint are broken. Surgery is not usually needed for ankle fractures, but you will probably need to wear a brace, splint or plaster cast for about six weeks. It can take several days or weeks for the swelling to go down completely, and months for the ankle joint to fully recover.

Many lifestyle changes can have positive impacts on your bone health. These include engaging in strength training and weight-bearing exercises, eating lots of vegetables, eating enough protein and high-calcium foods, getting lots of vitamin D, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Estrogen protects bones. Estrogen and progesterone levels begin to decrease when a woman enters menopause. One cause of osteoporosis is decreased estrogen levels. To combat the development of osteoporosis speak with your health care provider about supplements, options for prescription medication and injectable bone-building agents, adding strength training to your exercise routine, and hormone replacement therapy.

The risk of hip fracture increases with age. Older adults are at higher risk because of weaker bones, medications, poor vision, and balance problems. If you are unable to move or have severe pain in your hip or groin after a fall, seek medical attention.

Bone spurs are bits that grow off the bones, usually at the ends. These affect the joints and are usually caused by arthritis. They may not cause any problems and may not need any treatment. Speak to your doctor if you have joint pain or swelling.

Prevent slips and falls to avoid broken bones, especially if you have osteoporosis. This resource includes a slide show of falls prevention tips, including: exercise, install good lighting, wear slip-resistant shoes, clear away clutter, use safety devices, limit your alcohol, and talk to your doctor about your medications.

Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis. They slow bone breakdown and lower your risk of breaking bones. Side effects may include heart burn and upset stomach. Talk to your doctor to find the right type of bisphosphonates for you. Exercising, eating well and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can also help treat osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis leads to weak and brittle bones. There are medications available to reduce bone loss. Lifestyle changes can also help, including quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, weight-bearing exercise and increasing the calcium and vitamin D in your diet.

Rehabilitation practices like physiotherapy, splints, or braces are shown to help with recovery from an ankle fracture. Do not start physiotherapy too soon after an ankle fracture to avoid the risk of healing problems.

Your risk of developing osteoporosis is higher if you take prednisone. To limit the risk of osteoporosis while on this medication, try weight bearing exercises and avoid alcohol and tobacco. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may help lower your risk.

Calcium helps to build bone strength. Dairy, dark green vegetables and fish are good sources of calcium. Resource includes recommended daily levels and tips for choosing calcium supplements.

Bisphosphonates are normally taken for 3 to 5 years. Side effects may include stomach upset, jawbone problems and thighbone fractures. If after 5 years you still have a high risk of fractures, your doctor may recommend you continue to take bisphosphonates or another osteoporosis medication.

Exercise can help prevent injuries for people with osteoporosis, and improve bone and muscle strength, balance, posture, and pain relief. Strength training, aerobic, flexibility and balance exercises are good choices. Avoid high-impact and twisting. Ask your doctor before starting an exercise program.

A recent review showed that ultrasound may help heal broken bones. However, the quality of the evidence included in the review was low and more research is needed.

Low bone density can lead to weak and brittle bones. Include calcium and vitamin D in your diet, stay physically active and avoid tobacco and excessive drinking to protect your bone health.