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Osteoporosis
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a decrease in bone mass to the point that bones become fragile or brittle. Osteoporosis affects primarily the hip, vertebral column and wrist, but can also affect every bone in the body. The bones lack calcium and other vital minerals; become fragile and break more easily.
Facts on osteoporosis:
Osteoporosis and low bone mass are a major public threat for approximately 55% of the U.S. population aged 50 or older (according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation as of February 2002). 44 million Americans (30 million women and 14 million men) are affected by osteoporosis.
Risk factors for osteoporosis:
Modifiable risk factors:
- Smoking
- Improper nutrition
- Lack of regular weightbearing exercise
- Excess alcohol use
- Certain medications: corticosteriods, diuretics, anticoagulants, thyroid medications
- Certain diseases: thyroid dysfunction, cancer, neurological disorders, diabetes, liver or kidney dysfunction, chronic inflammation
Nonmodifiable risk factors:
- Age (65 or older)
- Gender (female)
- Race
- Family history
- Body build (small, thin individuals)
- Post-menopausal
First signs of osteoporosis:
- Loss of body height
- Postural changes: humped back, protruding abdomen
- Fractures
- Back pain
- Transparent skin
How physical therapy can help:
Osteoporosis is not just a part of growing old; it can be prevented and treated. Physical therapists at BryanLGH Medical Center have been specially trained to treat individuals with osteoporosis.
The goal of physical therapy in treating osteoporosis is to restore mobility, function, strength and confidence, and to enhance the safety and security of your everyday life. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain, prevent fractures, promote healing if a fracture is present and help strengthen your bones through a program of exercise designed especially for the individual.
Evaluation:
Your physical therapist will begin by taking a detailed medical history. You may be asked to perform a series of simple physical tests to assess your condition and your capabilities. Problems with range of motion, balance, posture, strength and endurance and body mechanics may be discovered during these tests.
Treatment:
Whether you're recovering from a fracture or trying to prevent one, exercise will likely be a part of your physical therapy treatment program. Exercise is fundamental to slowing the progression of osteoporosis. Your physical therapist can design exercises to improve your posture and enhance your sense of balance. Most of these are simple and can be done at home with no special equipment.
If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call 402-481-6006.
