Osteoporosis and the role of physiotherapy
Osteoporosis is a common condition through which bones become weak and brittle and physiotherapy is one of the key therapeutic techniques for patients with osteoporosis as an underlying condition.
Osteoporosis is rightly called the “silent disease” because it slowly progresses in a body without any symptom until a fracture is detected. It can generally affect both men and women but is more common in women that have reached menopause.
Common sites for fractures like the hip, spine, and wrist are prone to easier cracks when one is suffering from osteoporosis. Fractures caused by osteoporosis can be painful, disabling, and sometimes life-threatening, especially in older adults.
Some of the commonly identified risk factors for osteoporosis include the following:
Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases as you age.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.
Family History: If you have a family history of osteoporosis, you are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Menopause: The decline in estrogen levels after menopause can lead to bone loss.
Low Body Weight: Having a low body weight or being underweight can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of exercise or physical activity can contribute to bone loss.
Smoking and Alcohol Use: These habits can contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures.
How can physiotherapy help for clients with osteoporosis?
Physiotherapist can be very beneficial for clients with osteoporosis. Apart from preventing bone loss, reducing pain, improving posture, and enhancing overall physical function, there are many specific benefits of physiotherapy:
Posture Improvement: Osteoporosis causes a loss of height and a forward stoop in the spine, known as kyphosis. Physiotherapists who are primary health care providers, work with patients to improve their posture and alignment, which lead to reduced pain and prevent further bone loss.
Exercise Prescription: Physiotherapists who are an expert in designing exercise programs tailored to an individual’s needs, considering your physical condition and any limitations you may have. Exercise is an essential part of osteoporosis management, as it can help to build bone density, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls and fractures.
Pain Management: Osteoporosis usually leads to chronic pain, particularly in the spine. Physiotherapists will use manual therapy, such as massage and joint mobilization, to help relieve pain and improve flexibility.
Fall Prevention: Falls are a major concern for osteoporosis patients, as even a minor fall can result in a fracture. Physiotherapists help to prevent this by providing balance and coordination exercises, teach safe movement techniques, and recommend assistive devices to help prevent falls.
Physiotherapy is one of the most valuable tools in managing osteoporosis. Clients diagnosed with osteoporosis or at a risk for the condition should speak with a physiotherapist nearby to learn more about how they can help in managing their condition and improve their quality of life.
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