Reduce Your Risks with the Help of MVPT
Osteoporosis is a common condition that affects 55% of Americans aged 50 and older, and more frequently affects women. In fact, women account for 80% of osteoporosis diagnoses made through formal testing. Once diagnosed, improving posture, balance, and building muscle all contribute greatly to maintaining bone density levels and reducing future complications. Osteopenia, (think of it as pre-osteoporosis) is the weakening of bones and is often the first step toward initiating testing and formal diagnosis of osteoporosis. Our innovative care strategies at MVPT Physical Therapy will help you find quick relief.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Unfortunately, there typically are no symptoms to warn you! For this reason, it is referred to as a “silent” disease. Often an injury such a as a fall, may lead to unexpected fractures of bones or compression fractures of vertebrae. For those with advanced osteoporosis, normal stresses such as bending, lifting, or even coughing can result in spontaneous fractures. This can make daily life difficult, as you may not be able to move around as freely as you used to.
What are the causes of osteoporosis?
The condition develops when bone mass is lost, and changes or stresses impact the structure of bones. Some individuals have only one risk factor while others have multiple. The National Osteoporosis Foundation breaks down risk factors into those that are “controllable” and “uncontrollable” some of which include:
With all that you can’t control, it’s important to focus on what you can! As a member of your medical team, your MVPT physical therapist can help!
The National Osteoporosis Foundation’s Clinician Guidelines to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis recommends “physical medicine and rehabilitation to reduce disability, improve physical function and lower the risk of subsequent falls. Rehabilitation and exercise are recognized means to improve function, such as activities of daily living.”
Physical therapy can help!
Since improved physical function and strengthening of the body are critical, physical therapy is a highly effective method of treatment. Our physical therapists have the expertise to design safe exercise programs. They can also provide education on safely performing everyday activities that may put you at risk of future fractures. Proper posture is another critical component of living with osteoporosis, so your physical therapist will focus on postural improvement to decrease stress on certain areas of your body.
Because an active lifestyle is important for so many reasons, your physical therapist will help you find new exercise options that keep you active. Aquatic exercise and tai chi both provide excellent strength building without impact, and a walking program on a rubber track is a good way to maintain bone density with light compressive forces.
At MVPT, we will work with amongst your medical team to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan for you. Together, we will put you on the best path toward stronger bones and a healthier life. Take a proactive step to protect your future with the help of MVPT!
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Tags: Osteoporosis, osteopenia, spine, bone health
