By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There is no doubt that exercise can help us fight osteoporosis. In fact, being physically active can nearly halve the incidence of hip fracture in older adults. This is probably due to the fact that there are positive effects of exercise on bone, muscle strength, balance, and joint flexibility.

Women who are in a walking program and other leisure-time activities are 55% less likely than sedentary women to suffer a hip fracture. The biggest help can be found from aerobic, weight-bearing, strength-training, and stretching exercises.
Calcium and vitamin D can help as well.