How to Use Naturopathy to Treat Osteoporosis

People who are at high risk for osteoporosis--such as aging men or menopausal women--or those who suffer advanced symptoms (like bone fractures) may be able to benefit from naturopathy. With an emphasis on prevention, this health science will often use natural healing techniques along with conventional medical practices to treat physical disorders. Osteoporosis, or loss of bone density, may be avoided or treated effectively in this way.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Access to a naturopathic practitioner

Use Natural Methods to Treat and Prevent Osteoporosis

1. Research the causes, risks and symptoms of osteoporosis before symptoms occur, while the disease is reversible or manageable. The National Osteoporosis Foundation (see Resources below) has information on how and why bone loss happens.

2. Check into how dietary management can steer you clear of osteoporosis. For instance, the National Academy of Sciences recommends 1200 mg of calcium daily for those at risk for bone loss. Get more calcium in dairy products and soybeans or purchased as a nutritional supplement. Vitamin D and other minerals are also important to bone health.

3. Take more preventive steps by limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking. Avoid falls or other traumas by having your vision tested and corrected, if necessary.

4. Visit a naturopathic physician for an overall physical and to discuss your lifestyle and various factors that may impact your osteoporosis. Visits to naturopathic doctors are generally less expensive than those to traditional medical doctors, but they may not be covered by your insurance policy.

5. Learn more about naturopathy at the National Women's Health Resource Center Web site (see Resources below).

Use Naturopathy to Recuperate

6. Treat osteoporosis following a vertebrae or bone fracture with lifestyle changes. Strengthening exercises can restore strength and balance, building bone density while limiting the possibility of a fall. See a doctor or physical therapist for help.

7. Get a doctor's advice or buy a cookbook to help you keep your diet high in bone-friendly vitamins and minerals (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Osteoporosis builds gradually over time, and may or may not be a factor in a catastrophic bone fracture. If you experience a fracture for any reason, get immediate emergency medical assistance.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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