Bone health during the COVID-19 lockdown

Bone health during the COVID-19 lockdown 

As we age, our normal bodily functions start to naturally deteriorate and this includes our bones. Human bones are made up of bone cells, calcium & connective tissues, and together as parts of our skeletons, they provide structure to our bodies, enabling them to perform multiple physical functions. Hence, when our bones start to deteriorate, it hampers our mobility and posture.  

While aging bones is natural part of our lives, preventing this process gives us a better quality of life. The nation-wide lockdown, however, has made this process difficult. Thankfully, you can take a few steps to ensure good bone-health during this worldwide lockdown.  Lack of physical activity for extended periods of time causes extensive damage to bone-health. This is especially true for the elderly, who are already at-risk for bone problems. Stretching and yoga are some low-impact activities that can help keep the bones in good shape until we have access to our regular exercise routines.  

The lockdown period has left most of us without house-help. While domestic chores are a great way to stay active, standing for long periods of time, regular bending and squatting can have a negative impact on your bones. Try to divide your body weight when standing for long and be mindful of bending too much as this can be hard on your back and knees.  

For those working from home, sitting on your desk (or worse, your bed) is really harmful for your body. Always take a walk around the house or stretch after each hour of working.  

Vitamin D is the nectar for your bones. Just because you can’t go to the park every day, doesn’t mean it is okay to deny your bones of the much-needed sunlight. Sit in a balcony or other corners of your house that get ample sunlight to get your daily dose of Vitamin D.  

If you are mindful of the above mentioned tips for these few weeks, your bones will thank you in the long-term.