HealthTree Blog

It is known that Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, a mineral that is essential for good bone health. Without sufficient levels of Vitamin D, the body will not absorb calcium as well as it should, thus causing a shortage of calcium in the bones.

When this occurs, bones can become soft, and more susceptible to fractures. As one’s age progresses, continued Vitamin D and calcium deficiency can lead to a form of bone disease called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can occur in both men and women, although it tends to be more prevalent in women.

Severe osteoporosis is characterized by a stooping of the shoulders and upper spine. In women, this condition is sometimes referred to as a “dowager’s hump”. In both men and women, the condition can progress to the point where the person is unable to straighten up at all.

This can not only be extremely painful, but can cause problems with a person’s safety. Unable to see ahead of them but for a few feet, men and women who are severely bowed from osteoporosis may bump into obstacles or be unable to see vehicles or other hazards coming toward them.

Fortunately, severe osteoporosis can be prevented by recognizing and treating Vitamin D deficiency and calcium deficiency before it progresses to the stage where severe osteoporosis is a possibility. Even if a person has already been diagnosed with the onset of osteoporosis, Vitamin D supplements and calcium supplements, along with mild exercise such as walking, as well as other treatment options, can slow the progression of osteoporosis.