Osteoporosis is a growing concern in our aging society. It is a reduction in bone mass causing the bones to become fragile. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that a fracture occurs every 20 seconds. One out of every two women and one out of eight men will suffer an osteoporosis related fracture.
Most people consider osteoporosis a geriatric problem. It is actually a pediatric condition that manifests in adulthood. This means that prevention at an early age is the key to having strong bones for life.
Bone Density
Approximately 95% of peak bone mass is acquired by 19 years of age. Maximum bone density is reached at 30 years of age and then gradually begins to decline. Nutrition, heredity ,and exercise are the main factors that affect peak bone mass. Children with healthy diets and regular exercise have the best potential to develop maximum bone density that will last a lifetime. A 10% loss from bone mass on bone density testing is classified as 'osteopenia'. With this condition, medium risk for fractures exists. Osteopenia can lead to Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is characterized by a 25% loss in bone mass, resulting in a high risk for fractures.
There are known risk factors and initial signs that may indicate a potential for developing osteopenia / osteoporosis. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Risk Factors - family history, anorexia, bulimia, smoking, alcohol, over exercising, under exercising, obesity, pre menopause, post menopause, diet low in calcium, steroid medication use, and thyroid medication use
- Initial Signs - fractures (hi, vertebrae & wrists), loss of height, back pain, loss of teeth, transparent skin, and postural changes (thoracic rounding or protruding abdomen)
These risk factors and initial signs should be taken very seriously and may indicate the need for a bone density scan.
Daily tasks can be risky for a person with osteoporosis. Some of these activities are simple, such as tying one's shoelace or getting off of the floor. Everyone has their own strategies for accomplishing these tasks, but a physical therapist can teach how to prevent injury while performing these routine tasks. If a person with osteoporosis can internalize this information, they may prevent fractures. A fracture that is prevented contributes to potential improvements and years of better living.
Several avenues of treatment exist for osteoporosis. A comprehensive triangle of treatment is recommended that includes medication, exercise and diet. Freedom Physical Therapy has dedicated specialists available to educate and treat Osteopenia and Osteoporosis.
Our Treatment includes:
- Comprehensive Evaluation
- Patient / Family Education
- Posture / Body Alignment
- Manual Therapy Techniques
- Individualized Exercise Programs for Strength and Flexibility
- Balance Training
- Health & Nutrition Counseling
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