Some ways to protect your bones are:
Get enough calcium and vitamin D each day.
Walk, climb stairs, lift weights, or dance each day.
Talk with your doctor about having a bone mineral density (BMD) test.
Talk with your doctor about taking medicine to make your bones stronger.
This publication contains information about medications used to treat the health condition discussed here. When this publication was developed, we included the most up-to-date (accurate) information available. Occasionally, new information on medication is released.
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You can also do exercises to improve your balance. While holding the back of a chair, sink, or counter:
Stand on one leg at a time for a minute and then slowly increase the time. Try to balance with your eyes closed or without holding on.
Stand on your toes for a count of 10, and then rock back on your heels for a count of 10.
Make a big circle to the left with your hips, and then to the right. Do not move your shoulders or feet. Repeat five times.
How Can I Prevent Broken Bones if I Fall?
Sometimes you cannot prevent a fall. If you do fall, you can try to prevent breaking a bone. Try to fall forwards or backwards (on your buttocks), because if you fall to the side you may break your hip. You can also use your hands or grab things around you to break a fall. Some people wear extra clothes to pad their hips or use special hip pads.