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One of the most common conditions that predispose a patient to a series of cardiovascular complications is high cholesterol. With elevated lipids in the body, it increases the risk for certain conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. However, one unexpected, potential complication of having high cholesterol is the impact it can have on bone health.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is an organic molecule produced by our livers and has a wax-like consistency. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of cholesterol formed in our bodies does not come from the food that we eat, but rather how much our liver creates. Cholesterol forms cholic acid, which is used to make fats easier to digest.

Ideal cholesterol levels are typically below 200. Cholesterol is divided into two categories. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is which are considered ‘good’ cholesterol for your body. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is regarded as the ‘bad’ kind. As the name suggests, LDL is the bad cholesterol because there is more fat than protein, while HDL transports hormones throughout the body and helps re-process toxins found in cholesterol.

Cholesterol and Bone Pain

Having high cholesterol levels can damage the body in a cardiovascular context, but the bones can also be adversely affected as well. Studies show that triglycerides can increase the risk of bone fractures. Triglycerides are found in the body and are remnants of both oils and fat. A high reading (above 200), can also put one at an increased risk for stroke.

Research Regarding Cholesterol and Bone Health

Studies allow us to see how cholesterol is related to your bone health. Researches conducted a 13 year-long study on peri-menopausal women who lacked a history of fractures. At the end of the 13 years of observation, women who were identified with high triglyceride levels were shown to be more than twice as likely at risk to get fractures as opposed to those who do not. Other studies have suggested that high cholesterol can cause the body to put stress on the cartilage between the bones. It has been suggested that triglycerides can show that something is dangerously wrong with the body metabolically.

Controlling Cholesterol Levels

Other factors are directly correlated to bone pain, such as low calcium levels. However, elevated cholesterol levels have been proven to be linked with fractures in clients who have not had a history of them. This high pressure can lead to an inflammatory disease known as osteoarthritis. Cholesterol can be maintained via a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.

To maintain healthy, strong bones, it’s important to visit your orthopedic specialist regularly. Our specialist at the Orthopaedic Speciality Group can help manage your bone health. Our physicians’ wide range of expertise provides complete care in all areas of treatment including advanced surgical and nonsurgical techniques, pain management and rehabilitation.