Holistic treatments are increasingly sought alongside conventional medicine. This trend has its roots in traditional medicine, which in many cases predates and gave rise to much of Western medicinal practice. Many people appreciate this natural approach to health care for its non-invasive techniques and the absence of any side effects.
What is Osteoporosis and How Can it be Treated Naturally?
Several holistic treatments are used for the treatment of osteoporosis, a debilitating skeletal disorder that is common in older women, especially after postmenopausal. They experience weak bones because their bodies lose more bone mass as they age, consequently damaging the main structure of their bones.
Complementary medicine centres on the root of the ailment, not providing a temporary cure. It consists of different modalities; one or more may be used for the treatment of osteoporosis. The approach will depend on the findings of the health practitioner after performing a thorough assessment of the patient's condition.
If not treated immediately, osteoporosis can result in irreparable bone fracture, especially in the spine, wrist and hip area. Besides excruciating pain, a broken bone may cause permanent disability. A person with osteoporosis has bones so fragile that a serious fracture may occur after a single fall or by merely bumping into a hard object.
Managing Osteoporosis
People who have osteoporosis experience a thinning of the bones, as their bodies lose the ability to replenish and strengthen them. Their condition is diagnosed through a bone density scan or an x-ray, as it has few or no symptoms.
The primary form of treatment is a range of medication that halts the breakdown of bone. Lifestyle changes include load-bearing exercise and dietary modifications – specifically the inclusion of calcium and Vitamin D.
Natural Treatments for Osteoporosis
A range of holistic treatments offers hope for people with osteoporosis. Some of these work on the body's biomechanics, others relieve pain, and some provide the required nutrients to regain body functions. These natural therapies may follow different principles, but they bear a unified goal which is to treat the patient's whole person and help them reach their wellness goals.
Acupuncture
This treatment involves the insertion of microscopic needles into the patient's skin at predetermined points. These points are governed by the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which identifies energy pathways running through the body to all the major organs. Any obstruction of these energy meridians results in ailment or disease such as osteoporosis. Acupuncture for the treatment of osteoporosis focuses primarily on pain relief.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic focuses on the proper alignment of the body and adjustment of the spine, which is central to the effective functioning of the entire body. Chiropractic treatment can help people with osteoporosis restore their normal range of motion.
Herbal medicine
Herbal medicine utilises plant and plant-derived matter to create remedies and treatments for most illnesses and conditions. This ancient healing system is rooted and is still practised in the Ayurvedic tradition of India as well as in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Herbal medicine can aid in promoting calcium absorption by the body and is therefore useful for treating osteoporosis.
Massage therapies
Massage is an ancient technique utilised to relieve muscular and psychological tension. It also has remedial value in alleviating the symptoms of a range of ailments and conditions. When it comes to osteoporosis, it can help relieve muscular stiffness related to an injury, and help promote circulation in the limbs.
Nutrition
Nutrition has long been recognised for its role in maintaining a robust immune system and essential growth processes. It begins with a healthy, balanced diet that consists of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grain and lean meat, among others. The inclusion of calcium-rich dairy products is essential for bone health.
Osteopathy
Osteopathic treatment manipulates the limbs, joints and muscles to restore balance and harmony to the body. It's beneficial for osteoporosis, especially for easing pain and reviving mobility after an injury.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient healing system that incorporates several elements, including acupuncture, bodywork, herbal medicine and exercise. A TCM practitioner will assess your health and prescribe a treatment, or a combination of treatments. For osteoporosis, this may involve acupuncture for pain relief or a herbal remedy to improve calcium absorption by the body.
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