Martial Arts can help the elderly to deal with Osteoporosis

According to survey data from USP (University of São Paulo), over 60% of bodily injuries suffered by the elderly are the result of falls. Often these falls occur as a result of the weakening of the bones, usually caused by diseases such as osteoporosis. The struggle of elder people against bone diseases has as its main ally the intake of vitamins and foods that contain calcium.

Recent studies, published in the journal "BMC Research Notes" indicate that the control of the falls can be improved with the practice of martial arts such as Kung Fu or Karate, assisting in preventing of fractures in the bones.

These studies were based in the calculations of the impact force that a group of healthy young adults have during the falls when practicing martial arts compared to the degree of impact of falls that a person suffering from osteoporosis can support.

Since there may be a control in the falls of older people and that some safety measures can be taken, such as thicker mattress, the practice of martial arts can teach how to have more body control and also of how to fall without the occurrence of fractures.