Bone health is important for your body’s structural integrity, as well as a variety of internal functions. When you think of having good bones, you may immediately think of your legs and arms. While it’s very important to keep these strong, there are other bones that are equally vital for strength and vitality, including your backbone, clavicle, phalanx (the bones that make up the fingers and toes), and even your jawbones. When you have a qualified orthopedic specialist to help improve bones that need rehabilitation, that’s a boost. But in the meantime, there are many things you can do to ensure that you are building good bones.

Opt for Impact Exercise

Bone health can also be improved through impact activities, like jogging, riding bikes, trampoline work and jumping rope. Before embarking on an impact exercise routine, consult with your orthopedic specialist to find out your existing bone health status.

Get Plenty of Vitamin D

Vitamin D improves the body’s ability to make calcium, a building block for good bones. Unfortunately, many people don’t get adequate supplies of Vitamin D. In climates with less sun, this is an especially common phenomenon. However, even people who live in sunny climates like Florida and Georgia may not get enough Vitamin D from the sun. They may spend most of their time indoors in air conditioning to escape hot temperatures.

Have your Vitamin D levels checked by your orthopedic specialist. If necessary, you can get extra Vitamin D from supplements, which may vastly improve your overall bone health.

Eat Plenty of Foods With Calcium

The other big part of the equation for optimal bone health is calcium. Adults over 50 years of age require at least 1,000 mg. of calcium daily. If you don’t feel you are getting enough calcium, your orthopedic specialist can check your levels. Calcium supplements are available in stores, but the best source for calcium comes from natural foods like eggs, cheese and milk.

The great news is that bone health can be improved with Vitamin D, calcium and proper exercise. To receive a personalized treatment plan, contact the experts at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today.