There is no question that exercise is the key to preventing and managing osteoporosis. The earlier you begin exercising regularly, the less likely you will be to suffer from this debilitating disease. Exercise helps build and maintain bone density; hence why physical therapy is one of the best bridges to a healthier body.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease that thins the bones. Diagnosis is generally done with a bone density test, which is painless. Some physicians may also choose to perform blood testing also.
Osteoporosis weakens the bones in such that it can cause a painful curvature of the back. It can also put those who suffer from the disease at risk of fracturing bones more easily and causing falls or balance issues which can also result in broken bones. It can be very painful.
Physical Therapy’s Role
First your physical therapist will assess and evaluate you by determining the following:
- Current Level of Physical Activity
- Gait
- Posture
- Balance
- Muscle Strength
- Range of Motion
- Overall Physical Fitness
- Risk of Fracture
Once you complete your comprehensive assessment your physical therapist will develop a safe and individualized treatment regimen for individuals with fragile bones and low bone mass. . When having osteoporosis, the proper medication, diet and guided exercise program is the best way to strengthen and prevent injuries.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy for osteoporosis involves working closely with the physical therapist on weight bearing, muscle strengthening and core stabilization exercises. Physical therapy can also improve your balance, gait and reduce your risk of falling. Therapists will teach you all the precautions of movement, lifting, and injury prevention. Having a highly experienced and trained therapist supervising you is a must when exercising due to the high risk of injury when having fragile bones.
At Live Your Life Physical Therapy we know what it takes to build strong, health bones for individuals with osteoporosis. If you have been diagnosed contact us today and we can get you started on our Live Your Life TALL & STRONG Wellness Program, an innovative, comprehensive and effective Physical Therapy approach to postural correction and body alignment. We can develop a customized exercise plan that’s safe and effective for your bone health and help you Live Your Life TALL& STRONG!
Dedicated to Keeping You Healthy & Active,
Dr. Eva Norman
President & Founder
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Live Your Live Physical Therapy, LLC