Skeletal Health Day: A Reminder to Prioritize Bone Health at Every Age
Most of us don’t think about our bones until we have to—whether that’s due to an injury, joint pain, or a diagnosis like osteoporosis. But bone health is a lifelong priority, not just something to worry about later. Skeletal Health Day, an annual event on February 6, is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of building and maintaining strong bones from an early age.
To mark the occasion, experts are sharing insights on skeletal strength, helping people of all ages understand how to improve their bone health now rather than waiting until issues arise.
Why February 6?
The date—2/06—symbolizes the 206 bones in the human body. While bone density loss is often associated with aging, the goal of Skeletal Health Day is to shift the conversation: strong bones start young, and maintaining them is a lifelong effort.
“We often hear about osteoporosis prevention for older adults, but the foundation for lifelong bone health is actually built in childhood and early adulthood,” says Kyle Zagrodzky, bone health expertand Founder of OsteoStrong . “Our bone density peaks around age 30, and after that, it gradually declines. That’s why taking steps to strengthen your skeletal system early on can make a huge difference later in life.”
Think of your bones like a savings account. Up until your 30s, you’re in the deposit phase, building up as much bone mass as possible. After that, you start making withdrawals, losing about 1% of bone density per year on average. For women, that rate increases significantly after menopause. The more you’ve “saved up” in your early years, the better off you’ll be later on.
The good news? Bone loss isn’t inevitable. Weight-bearing exercise, proper nutrition (including calcium and vitamin D), and other proactive steps can help keep bones strong at any stage of life.
Some approaches to bone health focus on science-backed techniques that stimulate bone growth without the wear and tear of high-impact exercise. For example, the bone health system at OsteoStrong uses osteogenic loading—applying force to bones in a controlled way—and that specific approach has been shown to promote skeletal strength. Many who incorporate weight-bearing activities or more targeted methods like OsteoStrong into their routine report improvements in bone density, balance, and joint health over time.
“People don’t always realize how vital bones are beyond just structural support,” Zagrodzky explains. “They store essential minerals, contribute to muscle function, and even impact overall health in ways we’re still discovering. When we prioritize bone health, we’re investing in whole-body wellness.”
Skeletal Health Day is an opportunity to educate people on the importance of strong bones and provide practical solutions for maintaining skeletal health. Whether you’re an athlete looking for an edge, someone dealing with joint pain, or simply interested in preventing future bone loss, small steps taken today can make a big difference in the long run. Bone health isn’t just an “older adult” issue—it’s something we all need to think about. By raising awareness and encouraging proactive care, Skeletal Health Day serves as a reminder that a strong future starts with strong bones today.
