Osteoporosis
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when you have low bone density and mass. Most large, healthy bones tend to have a solid outer layer of bone cells and a spongy-looking inside that allows for flexibility, provides space for marrow, redirects forces, and lightens the weight of the bone overall. Osteoporotic bones tend to be weaker and more porous, making them more likely to break. The risk of developing osteoporosis is higher for women than it is for men, especially after menopause.
Osteoporosis in femur bone with microscopic view. © Peter Junaidy. ID 24992607. Obtained from https://www.dreamstime.com/royalty-free-stock-photography-osteoporosis-image24992607#_ .
How do physical therapists help?
Physical therapists are trained to know how movement impacts the body (and vice-versa). While they cannot directly change bone structure, they can utilize our knowledge to prescribe exercises that stimulate healthy strengthening or support of bone. PTs understand how repeated physical activity encourages bone-building cells to reinforce the most stressed paths. They also understand how chemicals released during exercise can affect someone’s body, which varies depending on their personal health history and anatomical structure. Most importantly, physical therapists understand how to get your body moving as safely as possible so you can enjoy all the benefits of exercise while minimizing risks.
If you go to a PT for help with managing osteoporosis, some approaches they could potentially use include: strengthening exercise, body awareness for posture and alignment, balance improvement to reduce risk of falling, and education on environment modifications. A physical therapist with board-certification, residency, fellowship, or specialization experience in orthopedic PT or geriatric PT should have advanced skills for treating people with osteoporosis. There are some health conditions that cause osteoporosis in children. In this case, a PT with a background in pediatrics could be a great option.
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