Osteoporosis
As we age, the amount of calcium in our bones decreases. This lowers the density or mass of our bones, making them porous and brittle—a condition known as osteoporosis. This condition often develops unnoticed over many years, with no symptoms or discomfort, until a fracture occurs—particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. Factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis include: aging, gender, heredity, health disorders, sedentary lifestyle, medications, nutrition, and lifestyle.
Osteoporosis and exercise
SSPT believes that some simple changes can help prevent, or minimize the effects of, osteoporosis. With your therapist’s knowledge of body mechanics and function, he or she can design an osteoporosis prevention or treatment program that focuses on your unique needs.
SSPT’s approach to preventing osteoporosis
Bones, like muscles, get stronger the more they work. Lack of exercise, especially as we get older, can lead to decreased bone density and increased susceptibility to fractures. This is why exercise is so important in preventing osteoporosis.
Two types of exercise have been found most beneficial in osteoporosis prevention:
- Weight bearing exercises include any type of exercise in which your legs bear your weight. Examples of such exercises include walking, running, and dancing. Swimming and cycling are not considered weight bearing exercises because your weight is supported by water or the bicycle seat, not your legs.
- Resistance exercises are the type of exercises that use free weights or exercise machines to build muscle and bone strength.
Your SSPT therapist can help you choose an active lifestyle that includes various physical activities would combine both types of exercise, leading to healthier bones.
SSPT’s approach to treating osteoporosis
Weight bearing and resistance exercises are also appropriate for those who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. However, high-impact aerobics and exercises that involve spine twisting or bending should be avoided. Before any person with osteoporosis starts an exercise program, we recommend consulting with a specialized physical therapist to construct an exercise program that adequately challenges the muscles and bones without risking injury and fracture. For those with osteoporosis who also experience problems with balance, we recommend physical therapy for balance rehabilitation to reduce the chance of falls and fractures.
