PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR OSTEOPOROSIS- By: Jeffrey Williams PT, Cert MDT
It is common for physical therapists to treat patients who have had complications related to osteoporosis such as fractures or surgery. It is less common to think of physical therapy as a proactive way to prevent or delay this bone disease.
Advanced Rehabilitation can cater a specific program based on your health, risk factors, and physical capabilities to allow each patient to initiate a program that suits them best. The majority, if not all, of the program can be transferred to a home program with only occasional checkups with your therapist.
Physical therapy for osteoporosis includes weight bearing exercises such as walking. This would also include closed chain exercises. Exercises in weight bearing help to make bone stronger by increasing calcium reabsorption. Resistance training usually with light weights would also be a component of any program. Along with recommendations on ways to reduce the effects of osteoporosis, your therapist can also give advice on how to prevent fractures with avoiding at risk actions such as fall prevention and avoiding positions that put more stress on your spine.
SYMPTOMS
An important aspect of this disease is that it generally does not cause the patient a lot of problems until it is too late. That usually means a fracture. That’s a pretty severe first symptom. Sometimes a stooped posture can be a clue. Generally it is diagnosed with a bone scan by your PCP or specialist. There are risk factors such as rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, malnutrition, low calcium diet, excessive alcohol consumption, low testosterone, postmenopausal women, and a life style with a lack of exercise.
PHYSICAL THERAPY AFTER FRACTURE
Unfortunately, osteoporosis is a silent disease and most of our patients only discover that they have it after they have suffered an injury. The most common osteoporosis injury is bone fracture. Many occur through trauma such as a fall or accident but many can arise from nothing more than rolling over in bed or even sneezing. Fractures are painful so rehabilitation at this point is focused on pain management and when symptoms are reduced returning to an active life style. Studies have shown that patients with fractures don’t return to full function as often without physical therapy. Patients who complete six months of progressive resistive exercises do have the best outcomes. Of course, most insurers don’t cover therapy for that long so communication after being discharged is critical. Never do an exercise if you’re not certain. The therapists at Advanced Rehabilitation will always be available to you.
PHYSICAL THERAPY BEFORE FRACTURE
It would be great if we could know when or if we were going to have an injury but we don’t. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis but have yet to have any symptoms it would be wise to think about how you can slow the progression of the disease. Remember that there is no cure but taking steps to minimize its effects can help. Just like diabetes, being proactive can greatly reduce the effects of the disease. Behavior modification can prevent a fracture. Asking for help with activities that require lifting, learning how to lift correctly, how to lift without twisting your spine, completing safe exercises approved for osteoporosis, implementing fall prevention strategies (example removing throw rugs etc.), even how to sneeze safely.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR APPOINTMENT AT ADVANCED REHABILITATION
A one-on-one mechanical evaluation with a McKenzie trained physical therapist who will assess your range of motion, strength, balance, and posture. Identifying areas of deficiencies.
Education on what the disease does and what can be done to slow or even stop the progression of the disease. Also development of exercises that teach you how to use proper body mechanics, posture, and exercises that are safe for people with osteoporosis.
One-on-one therapy sessions individualized for each patient that progressively improve strength, bone health, posture, and balance. The result being an individualized program that you can continue to do after your treatment with us is finished.
What you do in physical therapy is dependent on you. A lot of it depends on your fitness level and what your body can handle. Also the cause of your osteoporosis and risk level for fracture are important factors to consider. That’s why it is important to see the professionals at Advanced Rehabilitation. Whether it’s for a post fracture appointment or just to start an injury prevention program, let us be your guides through understanding and conquering this disease.