Judith’s Story
This episode I had the pleasure of chatting with my Sister-in-Law and registered Nurse; Judith Harris. Judith contacted me saying she was enjoying my podcasts and that she wanted to share her story if it might help other people.
I jumped at the chance to catch up with her and I am grateful to her for this frank retelling of her story. This story started with a Hysterectomy at age 50, followed by breast cancer treatment during the Covid 19 pandemic. Finally her most recent health blow is receiving a diagnosis of osteoporosis. Not surprisingly we chat about the importance of exercise for bones and whether we are getting enough of the right advice on diagnosis.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. Menopause is a contributory factor and bones weaken gradually over several years. It is often only diagnosed AFTER a fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break (fracture). The most common injuries in people with osteoporosis are a broken wrist, a broken hip and broken spinal bones (vertebrae).
Prevention is better than cure!
There are medications you can take and thankfully Judith is receiving the recommended drug treatment. But I am also interested in the lifestyle measures that can be used alongside the drug therapies to improve the condition of her bones and guard against fractures in the future. In particular my intervention of choice; exercise!
Build bone with exercise!
I couldn’t help myself as I jumped up on my soapbox (apologies Judith!) to have a bit of a rant! In my defence I am passionate to share the news that we can take action to strengthen muscles and bones with appropriate exercise. Checkout my blog all about Pilates for Bone Health to learn more!
Exercise and hot flushes
On the very day we that we recorded this chat Judith spotted an article in the Daily Mail . She reads that researchers from Smith College in Massachusetts reported ”sedentary lifestyles may be putting women at greater risk of hot flushes during the night. They handed Menopausal women struggling with night sweats some tough-love advice: stop sitting around! Need I say more…
If you are interested in finding about more about Movement as Medicine book your free 20 minutes consultation with me and join your first class for free!
Download the podcast on Anchor FM
Author Phillipa Butler Chartered Physiotherapist, Movement Maestro and Podcaster
