Two women, one older and one younger, jog outdoors in athletic wear. Both appear active and healthy. Text reads: "Lifelong Bone and Joint Health Starts Here.

May is also recognized as Women’s Health Month, a timely opportunity to focus on one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of women’s well-being: bone and joint health. At Orthopedic Associates of Long Island, we understand that women face unique orthopedic challenges throughout their lives. From adolescence to post-menopause, maintaining strong bones and healthy joints is essential for mobility, independence, and overall health.

The Silent Risk: Women and Bone Health

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, disproportionately affects women. In fact, 1 in 2 women over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis, compared to 1 in 4 men. Bone density naturally begins to decline with age, but for women, the loss accelerates after menopause due to decreased estrogen levels—a hormone that helps protect bones.

But bone health isn’t just a concern in older age. Joint conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which is more common in women, can begin in early adulthood and progress if left untreated. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can all affect bone and joint integrity, making it crucial for women to prioritize musculoskeletal health throughout their lives.

Key Phases in a Woman’s Bone Health Journey

  1. Adolescence and Early Adulthood (Ages 10–30):
    This is the critical time for building peak bone mass. Physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercise, along with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, helps strengthen the developing skeletal system.

  2. Midlife (Ages 30–50):
    Bone mass stabilizes, but joint wear and tear may begin. Women juggling careers, families, and other responsibilities often ignore early signs of joint discomfort or stiffness. This is the time to stay active, stretch regularly, and avoid overuse injuries.

  3. Post-Menopause (50+):
    Estrogen levels drop, accelerating bone loss and increasing the risk of osteoporosis and joint degeneration. Preventive screenings such as bone density scans (DEXA) and routine orthopedic evaluations become essential.

Tips for Lifelong Bone and Joint Health

  • Exercise Regularly: Engage in strength training, walking, yoga, and swimming to improve bone density and joint flexibility.

  • Eat a Bone-Healthy Diet: Focus on calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products, and ensure adequate vitamin D intake.

  • Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: These can reduce bone mass and negatively impact joint tissues.

  • Protect Your Joints: Use proper body mechanics, take breaks during repetitive tasks, and address any injuries promptly.

  • Get Screened: Women over 50—or younger women with risk factors—should consult their physician about bone density testing.

We’re Here to Help

At Orthopedic Associates of Long Island, our mission is to support women through every stage of life with personalized, evidence-based care. Whether you’re managing arthritis, recovering from a fracture, or looking to preserve your bone health, our orthopedic specialists are here with advanced diagnostics and treatment options.

This Women’s Health Month, let’s prioritize strong bones and mobile joints—because lifelong movement starts with a strong foundation.