Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by a loss of bone density, causing them to be weaker and more prone to fractures. It currently affects up to 4% of Australians.
While it may be a confroting diagnosis there is treatment which can allow you to live a high quality, active life. Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in managing osteoporosis and improving quality of life.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. This results in bones becoming weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in the spine, hips, and wrists.
It is more common in older women, particularly after menopause when there is a reduced production of oestrogen which is an essential hormone in the production of bones.
Causes of Osteoporosis:
Ageing: Bone density decreases with age.
Hormonal changes: Reduced oestrogen in women and testosterone in men can contribute to bone loss.
Inactivity: Lack of weight-bearing exercise can lead to bone weakening.
Poor nutrition: Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can affect bone health.
Genetics: Family history of osteoporosis can increase the risk.
Certain medications: Prolonged use of steroids or other medications can weaken bones.
How we can help you:
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the management of osteoporosis by focusing on:
Exercise Prescription: We design individualised exercise programs to improve bone strength, balance, flexibility, and posture. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises are particularly beneficial for bone health.
Fall Prevention: We assess and address factors contributing to falls, such as poor balance and muscle weakness. We may recommend exercises to improve balance and coordination to reduce the risk of fractures.
Pain Management: Physiotherapy techniques such as manual therapy and massage can be benefical to pain management along with exercise.
Education and Lifestyle Modification: We ensure to provide you with education around proper body mechanics, safe movements, and lifestyle modifications to prevent fractures and promote bone health.
Assistive Devices: We may recommend assistive devices such as walking aids or orthotics to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
Support you Mentally: As well as the physical implications, it can be very confronting to be faced with an Osteoporosis diagnosis and what it may mean for your future health. We are here to help guide you through one step at a time, cheer you on, and keep you accountable to doing what you need to do to stay as healthy and active as possible!
If you have any questions please give us a call, or if you would like to book an appointment to discuss your condition and treatment options, click the button below to head to our booking page.