Physiotherapy for Osteoporosis

This week we touch on another health issue most often seen in the older population, osteoporosis.

What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is causes by a decrease in the minerals in the bones which leads to a loss of bone density. Unfortunately there are no visible symptoms but the frailty in the bones exposes them to a higher risk of fractures. As the density of the bones becomes thinner and less dense, even small accidents, such as a minor knock or fall can result in substantial damage to the bones.

Osteoporosis affects bones throughout the whole body however the condition is most commonly seen in places such as the wrist, arms (upper and forearm), hip, spine and even ribs.

According to Osteoporosis Australia, the condition affects over 1 million Australians, most of whom are women as a result of hormonal changes during menopause. People over 50 years of age who have been identified to be at risk of the silent disease, as it is sometimes known, are advised to take preventive action before injury occurs and consult a medical professional if they take a fall or bump.

Who is at risk?
Many of us live a sedentary lifestyle; we spend a great deal of time sitting whether this be on the commute to and from work, at work and when we come home of an evening to relax. Limited movement, poor posture and weak muscles contribute to the risk of accidental falls and knocks leading to factures. The older population and those who are overweight are also at high risk.

Because of hormonal changes that occur during menopause, women tend to be more susceptible to the disease however men should also be weary of the risks and take preventative action. And that is where physiotherapy comes in..

How can the risks of osteoporosis be minimised? And where does physiotherapist fit in?
Exercise, along with a healthy and mineral rich diet will go a long way to preventing and even improving the lifestyle of those at risk of or suffering from the silence disease.

Exercise and physical activity is a great way for suffers of osteoporosis to improve their health and wellbeing. Benefits include both reduction of bone less and conservation of remaining bone tissue as well as improved physical fitness, muscles strength, mobility and coordination to lower the risk of falls or bumps. More gentle forms of exercise have also been known to reduce pain caused by osteoporosis related injuries.

Physiotherapists are highly knowledgeable in the areas of muscles, joints, nerves, movement exercise and posture. This makes them ideal partners to work with for the prevention of osteoporosis. With this knowledge, your physio can work with you to develop a tailored exercise plan incorporating physiotherapy treatment for existing injuries or niggles, strength training programs, assistance with weight loss through personal training, softer therapies (specific types of massage) and whole body vibration therapy.

A nutritious diet of calcium rich foods will aid in building and maintaining bone strength. Ensuring you include a variety of fresh food in your diet along with calcium rich food such as milk, yoghurt and other dairy products as well as green vegetables including broccoli, bok choy, silverbeet, cucumber and celery and almonds.

This Sunday 20 October is World Osteoporosis Day. Visit the International Osteoporosis Foundation and the Osteoporosis Australia websites to learn more or speak with your local Back In Motion Physiotherapist.