eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Take Care of Your Bones When Taking Prednisone

Member
By Momofthree
User-Submitted Video

Prednisone and other corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for a number of chronic autoimmune illnesses. These are strong and fast-acting medicines, often showing improvement in a patient's disease in just a short time. They also come with a number of unwanted side effects. One such undesired effect is thinning of the bones. Here are some tips for protecting your bones while taking prednisone.

From Quick Guide: Care for Broken Bones
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Make sure you are taking in adequate amounts of calcium, through your diet or supplements. There are many calcium-enriched foods and drinks available to boost your calcium intake. Calcium chewables are a fairly easy way to ensure adequate calcium amounts.

  2. Step 2

    Take in plenty of vitamin D, which helps your body properly absorb the calcium. Calcium chewables typically contain plenty of vitamin D as well.

  3. Step 3

    Try exercises that are weight-bearing, if you are able. Seek the help of a physical therapist to design the right program for you, especially if you have weakened muscles or joint problems.

  4. Step 4

    Look into prescription possibilities with your doctor. Bisphosphonate medicines can help, but these have their own side effects. Research them carefully to decide if they are right for you.

Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health