Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weaker and more fragile. It can lead to changes in your posture, to changes in balance and fear of falling, to decreased confidence in your body, and to loss of function.
Osteopenia or low bone density is when the bones are weaker but not as fragile as in osteoporosis.
Even with a diagnosis of osteoporosis or osteopenia you can still strengthen your bones and improve your mobility, strength, posture and confidence in function.
Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because there is no pain in early stages. Without Dexa scans you are not aware that it is present. At any point with osteoporosis or osteopenia you might note:
- Some loss in height
- Changes in your posture
- A fracture that occurred easily
- Back pain may be caused by a fractured or compressed vertebrae in your spine.
Osteopenia and Osteoporosis are most often diagnosed in women after menopause, when their body stops building as much bone. It’s important to note that although we are losing bone at a higher rate after menopause, bone is still being built. Just not as much. Bone strengthening can still occur!
If you have osteoporosis or osteopenia, it is vital to protect and to build your bones. Exercise has been shown to improve bone mineral density, as well as to change balance, posture and mobility. A Physical Therapist is the ideal provider to teach you ways and exercises to improve your bone mass and strength while at the same time avoiding exercises that may put undesirable strain on weakened bones.
At Embody Physiotherapy, we work with you to make changes in your postures, exercise routines and habits to strengthen your bones and reduce your fracture risks. Each program is designed to meet your bone health and whole-body health needs, your function, balance and mobility, and strength and to build and progress as you do.
A program could include:
- Mobility exercise
- Posture and balance exercises
- Resistance and weight training
- Weight-bearing exercise and activities
- “Bone- safe” education for your day-to-day activities and life
Each program is designed for you and your lifestyle.
Rebecca Meehan PT WCS PYT utilizes her experience and knowledge of anatomy, orthopedics and women’s health as well as her specialized training in Medical Therapeutic Yoga, Bones for Life, and Sara Meeks Bone programs to build a program that creates confident motion and stronger bones for you.
Contact Rebecca Meehan PT for more information.
