Osteoporosis in Women Athletes
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by the reduction in the bone mineral density which leaves the bones more prone to fractures. It can cause serious damage to the spinal column, like the fracturing of the vertebra in the advanced cases. In the beginning stages it may manifest as sudden and very severe pain in the middle of the back. Osteoporosis is frequent in post-menopausal women, because of the depletion of the estrogen levels which is thought to have a crucial role in maintaining the bone mineral density in women.
People Most Vunerable to Osteoporosis
Women who have a thin physique, smokers, women who lack exercise, as well as those who have irregular menstrual periods or early menopause, have the greatest risk of developing osteoporosis. People who have amenorrhea or eating disorders have the highest risk of osteoporosis among sports women. Also there are some ethnic factors coming into play as women of Caucasian and Asian origin are thought to be more vulnerable to osteoporosis.
Causes of Osteoporosis in Women Athletes
Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is a potential cause of osteoporosis in women. Amenorrhea leads to the depletion of estrogen levels which in turn adversely affects the bone mineral density. Not all athletes with amenorrhea have the low bone mineral density. The prolonged cases like one marked by the absence of menstrual period for six months or longer, can seriously affect bone mineral density and mark the beginnings of osteoporosis if neglected. Reduction in bone mineral density in turn results in an increased occurrence of stress fractures.
High intensity Training with Inadequate Diet
Training patterns and body composition are major determining factors of osteoporosis. High intensity training coupled with a low energy diet can be disastrous for an athlete. Low calcium intake seriously affects the maintenance of skeletal mass. A low energy diet is also a potential cause for amenorrhea which further reduces calcium levels.
Specific Illnesses
Some diseases like as thyroid disease and medical prescriptions like corticosteroid medicines are also thought to be contributing to the risk of osteoporosis.
Low Body Mass Index
Athletes of aesthetic sports like gymnastics and skating, and dancers, especially ballet dancers are at risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis due to low body mass index. The pressure to keep a low body weight often results in eating disorders and amenorrhea in these cases.
Treatment for Osteoporosis in Sports Women
The following measures are followed in the treatment of osteoporosis:
- Estrogen replacement to prevent bone loss
- Proper calcium intake.
Recommended Calcium Intake
Bone mineral density reaches its peak during adolescence. It is better to begin including calcium in the diet from childhood onwards to have good bone mass. The recommended intake of calcium is as given below:
8 to 11 years – 900mg/day
12 to 15 years – 1000mg/day
16 to 54 years – 800mg/day
54 + years – 1000mg/day
Dairy products and fortified cereals are ideal sources of calcium. It is also found in smaller amounts in green leafy vegetables, cereals, nuts, and dried fruits.
Steps to prevent Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can be prevented by maintaining a good bone mineral density. Proper intake of calcium, a healthy diet, good body mass index and regular exercise can boost the bone mass of the athlete. Care should be taken to stay away from alcohol intake and smoking.