Why Is It Important To Get Regular Orthopaedic Bone Check Up Above 50 Years Of Age?

Regular Orthopaedic Bone Check-Up

A regular health check-up has become an important part of our lives to stay at pink of health but in geriatric population, it holds much more importance. After 50 years of age, the body starts to change and eventually deteriorates if not taken care of. Despite proper nutrition and physical activity, certain conditions do creep in. In order to treat them, they should be detected early.

To detect degenerative changes

Degeneration of joints is a natural process after 50 years of age. It is prominently seen in the knee and Spinal Joints. Though we cannot stop the process we can slow down the process and minimise the complications related to it. Any vigorous wear and tear of joints can be noticed in the regular screening process. This may help in improving the prognosis of the joint condition.

To avoid bone thinning

Bone loses its density with age due to numerous reasons like less physical activity, the low metabolic rate of body and menopause in women etc. Reduction in bone density goes unnoticed if regular check-up is not done which may lead to fragility fractures and further complications related to it arise in old age. Bone densitometry scan is done to keep a check on bone health and if there is reduced density calcium supplements and exercises are prescribed to avoid fractures.

To prevent deformity

The deformity can also occur due to numerous reasons and mainly because of weak muscles. Most commonly, deformities are seen in spines such as stooped posture, scoliosis and kyphosis. If these are not treated on time, it may compress spinal nerves and cause numbness, radiating pain and weakness of limbs. Other than this weakness of leg muscles may lead to knock knees or bow legs which lead to unequal forces dissipation on joints and hasten the degenerative process. Maintaining muscles and early diagnosis of deformities can save you from a lot of pain and keep you going for a long time.

To keep musculoskeletal pain at bay

Improper musculoskeletal functions may lead to generalised weakness and have the tendency to disable the patient to its lowest. Proper ergonomics can be maintained after consulting a practitioner to minimise stress on the body due to daily activities. Regular screenings and checkup can help to rule out biomechanical faults and reduce the chances of injury so that we can enjoy life to its fullest.

To detect any malignant tissue

Cancer has become increasingly common in old age. Malignant tissues are notoriously known to metastasise in long bones of the body as they are rich in blood supply. Cancer is usually present without symptoms until it has spread to a larger part of the body. Regular tests can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage and control it better.