Bone Health

The skeletal system is one of the most important systems in the body — as it literally holds everything in its place. We often go throughout our lives without giving our bones the props they deserve (even though they spend our whole lives propping us up!). Find out how to keep your bones strong, even if you’ve neglected them in the past.

Types of Bone Diseases and Issues

Our bones can potentially suffer from over a dozen diseases and issues! The good news is that most bone conditions are treatable, and some are even 100% reversible. The most common conditions that can affect your bone health include:

• Osteoporosis
• Paget’s disease
• Osteonecrosis
• Bone tumors
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scoliosis
• Low bone density
• Gout
• Bone infection

Symptoms of Bone Diseases

The symptoms of bone diseases can vary from person to person, depending on the disease itself. In most patients, pain and swelling are common, but again, that can depend on the type of disease. The most common symptoms of bone disorders include:

• Abnormal swelling
• Back pain
• Bone pain
• Bone breaks
• Curved spine
• Enlarged bones
• Poor posture
• Shrinkage

The bad news is that with many of these diseases, symptoms won’t appear until severe damage has been done. That means you need to make regular appointments with a doctor that specializes in general medicine and preventative care if you want to decrease the likelihood of developing a bone issue.

How to Prevent Bone Diseases

The prevention of bone diseases depends greatly on the disease itself. Osteoporosis and low bone density are two of the most common concerns and result in loss of bone mass. 

• Reduce salt intake
• Increase calcium intake
• Monitor nutrients
• Increase vitamin D intake
• Regular weight training
• Regular cardiovascular exercise
• Avoid activities and exercise that cause the spine to twist

Causes of Bone Loss

• Menopause
• Overactive thyroid
• Nutrient deficiency
• Too much salt
• Medication side effects
• Not enough exercise
• Alcoholism

How Can I Improve Bone Health?

The good news is that many bone issues can be reversed. In fact, the most successful way to reverse bone loss and prevent it is to eat a diet that’s full of nutrients. To find out if you’re deficient in nutrients that support your skeletal system, we recommend getting a blood nutrient test from one of the below at-home test kit providers.

Medical Treatments for Bone Health

Some bone disorders require medical treatments (such as bone cancer), yet many bone issues can be fixed through lifestyle changes and supplements.

If you’re concerned that you may have a vitamin deficiency, we recommend getting your nutrient levels tested. If you don’t already have an online doctor that specializes in preventative care, we recommend making an appointment. If your doctor recommends getting your nutrient levels tested, you can order an at-home testing kit from one of the below providers:

• Baze (urine strip)
• Thriva
• Vessel Health
• EverlyWell
• Health Testing Centers

What Is the Best Vitamin for Bone Health?

When it comes to bone health, you need to ensure you get plenty of calcium and vitamin D. 

If you’re worried that you might not be getting enough of these nutrients, we recommend getting tested or talking to your online doctor before blindly taking supplements. Many patients who start supplement regiments on their own, often end up taking too many or unnecessary vitamins.