Warning of bone damage from vigorous exercise

People who train rigorously for marathons or engage in similar strenuous exercise have been warned that this can cause damage to their bones.

Experts say that a major strain on the body's bones can push some people into the risk category for low bone density, which is a well-established risk for stress fractures and can be a symptom of osteoporosis.

According to chartered physiotherapist Mary O'Connor, low bone density and osteoporosis can be prevented in most cases and are treatable in the majority of people.

She said osteopenia, which is a precursor to osteoporosis, can be corrected.

"Early diagnosis is essential for the best results. However, this can be difficult, as it is often mistakenly thought of as a female or old person's disease, when in fact it affects all age groups and both sexes."

Ms O 'Connor said others in the high-risk group for low bone density include those on weight-restructed diets and women who suffer from menstrual bleeding and who have had a hysterectomy.

She was speaking after the launch of a new bone density diagnostic scanning service at the Vista Primary Care centre in Naas, Co Kildare.

Visit irishhealth.com's Osteoporosis Clinic here

[Posted: Fri 21/08/2009]