American Bone Health Board of Directors member Shelley Powers shares her personal story of living with osteoporosis on the health information website HealthyWomen.org. The essay includes her thoughts on “What I Wish I Had Known When I Was 40” along with advice for younger women to do what they can to strengthen their bones and muscles.
Younger people should do everything they can to build up their bone bank. For example, high-impact exercise really stimulates bone growth. Strong muscle mass protects your bones. The more muscular you are, the better. Balance is also tied into fall prevention. If you have good balance, the pathways are laid down in your brain from muscle memory. You may be able to recover from a fall if your balance is strong. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting or changing an exercise regimen.
Shelley actually got involved with American Bone Health soon after her diagnosis. The retired teacher’s experience can be a lesson for all of us to be our own best advocate when it comes to our bone health.
Thanks to Shelley for sharing her story and for being a dedicated volunteer and board member for American Bone Health!
