Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become thin and weak. Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because there are often no symptoms until a bone breaks(fracture). It can occur at any age, but it is most common in age group of 50 years and older. There are many risk factors for osteoporosis, including age, family history, diet, medications and lifestyle.
There are two types of osteoporosis: primary and secondary. Primary osteoporosis happens when bones thin as you age. Secondary osteoporosis happens when other health conditions or medications cause bone loss.
This condition can lead to fractures, which can be extremely painful and cause long-term disability. Fractures are most likely to occur in the hip, spine, or wrist.
There is no cure for osteoporosis, but there are treatments that can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. These treatments include lifestyle changes, such as getting enough calcium and vitamin D and doing weight-bearing exercises, medications, and supplements.
How can physical therapy help with osteoporosis?
Physical therapy can help people who are suffering from osteoporosis in the following ways :
Increasing their strength and flexibility, which can help in making everyday activities easier.
Improving their balance and coordination, which can help in preventing falls
Reducing pain levels
Improving their quality of life.
Can Exercising helpful in osteoporosis?
Exercises can help a great deal in this condition. Regular exercise can help in modifying the shape and size of the bone, which can help in preventing injuries. Exercise also increases muscle strength and improves balance, which helps in reducing the risk of falls in adults.
Here are 5 top exercising tips that can even be done at home :
1. Wall Push Ups - Stand with both hands on the wall and perform push ups from standing position.
2. Hip Extension or Back kicks - Move your leg backwards from standing position. You can use a chair or your kitchen island for support and prevent loss of balance.
3. Hip Abduction or Side kicks - Move your leg sideways from standing position.
4. Single limb stance - Stand on one leg for 20 seconds. Use support if needed. If it is difficult to stand for 20 seconds then initially start from 10 seconds and gradually increase up to 30 seconds..
5. Squats - Stand straight with a wide stance and slowly bend your knees and hips to move your body downwards and forwards while moving your hips backwards. Think that you are trying to sit on an imaginary chair. Keep your balance and control the movement. You can use a chair or kitchen island for support.
You can do these exercises for 2 to 3 sets of 10 repetitions at least 3 times a week. You can click on the link below and watch the following video to perform these exercises correctly.
Can physical therapy at home be helpful?
Yes, physical therapy at home can be helpful for those suffering from osteoporosis. A physical therapist can provide assessment for it in the comfort of your home and provide one on one concierge physical therapy.
If you are a senior suffering from osteoporosis, or if you are at risk for developing the condition, talk to your doctor about physical therapy. Since it might not be possible for them to visit a clinic, physical therapy at home can be helpful for them.
You can call Mobile Physio Care services, and get one on one concierge physical therapy at home. We also provide virtual visit. Contact us to make an appointment within 24 hours.
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