Library
X is for X-ray
X-rays are one of the most effective ways to determine the density of one’s bones. This measure, taken by Dual Energy XRAY Absorptiometry, or DEXA scan, is often used to determine how much mineral is in the bones. The more dense the minerals, the stronger the bone, the stronger the bone the less likely a person is to experience a fracture as a result of an otherwise insignificant slip or fall.
As we age, the likelihood of a fracture from a slip or fall increases. According to Osteoporosis Australia 1 in every 2 women, and 1 in every 3 men over the age of 60 will suffer a fracture due to fragile or brittle bones in their lifetime. Even one startling is the finding that the death rate in women from hip fractures is greater than the incidence of all female cancers combined.
Physical activity and exercise plays a key role in bone health across the lifespan. Recent research has showed that activity levels in adolescents are positively related to the amount of bone minerals that are laid down. Evidence now shoes that the risk of hip fracture in older adulthood can be reduced by nearly 20% if adolescent and teenage girls engage in healthy levels of daily physical activity.
If one’s teenage years are well behind them, regular participation in physical activity and exercise still offers the promise of better bone health. Specifically there are two types of exercise that are particularly beneficial to your bones – weight bearing activities and strength training.
Written by Professor Kerry Mummery
College of Health and Human Services
CQUniversity
