What is Osteoporosis ?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that effects up to 1 million Australians. It happens because our bones loose their thickness and become brittle . The ageing process, genetics and gender can all cause our bones to loose the ability to replace important minerals as quickly as they are being used. Our bones need to be strong and healthy or fractures can occur , unfortunately there are usually no obvious symptoms as the bones do not give the same feedback as muscles do.
How can Physiotherapy and Exercise help treat Osteoporosis ?
The main aim with the onset of Osteoporosis is to help reduce or reverse bone loss.This can be done with medications, calcium as found in diary products and vegetables ,along with Vitamin D and Exercise . Exercise is important as it is this stimulus that tells the bones to remain strong. If it does not receive this stimulus then there is no need for the bones to remain strong. Weight bearing , flexibility and strengthening exercises have been proven to assist in re-building bones . Not only do these exercises treat Osteoporosis but can help with co-ordination and balance , which will prevent falls. This is all good and well, however the exercises need to be specific and targeted in order to illicit the response desired. As an example, if you run, there is a lot of impact going into the bones of the legs and hip. Therefore, running will help maintain strength in the bones of the lower body, but not the upper body. A customised exercise program designed by a professional is extremely important so that you don’t put in years of effort with no return.
Please feel free to call us to discuss if you need any help with the prevention of osteoporosis.
Holistic Physio Fitness will work with you to develop a diet and exercise strategy to help encourage new bone growth.
You can call Holistic Physio fitness om 02 9999-6666 or email us on [email protected]