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Bad to the Bone
Some of the "Bad Things" That Can Happen to Your Bones
Yes, bad things can happen to your bones. Some of you may have already experienced breaks and fractures. They are certainly no fun! This page will tell you about some of the "bad things" that can happen to your bones. Remember, just because they can happen, doesn't mean they will happen. Just take precautions and read How to Keep Your Bones Healthy to learn how you can prevent these "bad things" from happening!
Arthritis
Arthritis (arth-rit-is) is an inflammation of the joints. That means people with arthritis have achy feelings in their bones. It can be very painful! Having this disease makes it difficult for people to do daily tasks and jobs, such as walking, typing, or playing. The knees and hips are the most commonly affected joints. There isn't much that can be done to help individuals with this serious problem other than creams that can be applied to the achy areas of the infected joints.
Osteoporosis (os-tee-o-por-o-sis) is a weakening of the bone matter. The effects of this disease usually show up in older adults. This is also a painful disease. Due to the weak condition of the bones, breaks can occur very easily. Although kids don't show signs of this disease, research has shown that childhood is the time to take measures to prevent osteoporosis from happening. SO...DRINK YOUR MILK!!! If you are unable to digest milk or other dairy products, talk to your doctor about alternative sources of calcium.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (pair-e-o-don-tal) Disease is an inflammation of the gums around the teeth. This occurs when teeth are not cared for properly. People often forget that the gums are important to care for along with the teeth. They need to be brushed, too. The gums hold the teeth in place, so with out them eating and talking are difficult tasks!
Breaks
Many of you have either broken a bone or know someone that has. Broken bones happen lots of different ways, the most common way is when someone falls and just lands the wrong way! Bones are very strong, but like anything else, they can only take so much pressure before they give out. It can hurt pretty badly, but the good news is...broken bones can be fixed! A doctor will put a cast or a splint on the broken area. The cast or splint keeps you from moving the injured bone and allows the body to heal that broken part! That's pretty amazing, huh?!
Dislocations
Sometimes, instead of breaking, a bone may become dislocated. That means that the bones has been moved from the joint that it is supposed to be in! Ouch! However, like breaks and fractures, dislocations can also be fixed. The doctor can work with the joint until the bone can be put back in place. Only a doctor should do this...regardless of what you've seen in the movies!
Poor Nutrition
Poor nutrition, or not eating enough food, can be very hard on your body. A lack of healthy food can cause your long bones (arms and legs) to stop growing! Not getting enough vitamins C and D and calcium will also cause your bones to become weak. Your bones need to be strong and healthy to support all of the activities you do throughout your life. Without healthy food to nourish your bones and the rest of your body, it will be nearly impossible to play all of those fun games you love so much! Did you ever notice how you feel tired and cranky when you're hungry? That's your body's way of saying that it needs energy! Listen to what your body tells you!
