Osteoporosis

According to the American Physical Therapy Association, osteoporosis affects an estimated 28 million women and men age 50 and over. Osteoporosis costs our economy $13.8 billion each year in health care expenses and lost productivity. 
What is Osteoporosis?  It literally means “porous bones”. Calcium, a mineral that keeps bones strong, is lost and the bones become more fragile. This disease is often called “the silent thief” because there are no symptoms. Yet over a period of decades it robs your bones of calcium.
Eighty percent of the osteoporosis cases are female, however a significant number of males also suffer from the disease. Older women suffer 1.5 million fractures to the hips, forearms, and vertebra each year. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, one out of every 2 women and one out of every eight men over the age of 50 has an osteoporosis-related fracture. 
We reach our peak bone mass in our late teens and early twenties. After that we start to gradually lose bone mass faster than the body can replenish it. Your physician can give you an idea of whether you are at risk for osteoporosis. A bone density test can assist your doctor in determining the degree of bone loss and a proper course of treatment. 
While we don’t yet know all the causes of osteoporosis, there are many factors that can help predict who is at risk. Respond “yes” or “no” to the statements below to get an idea of where you stand:
___My older relatives have a history of broken bones.
___I’m “petite” or thin.
___I drink heavily.
___I smoke.
___I consume a lot of caffeine and/or salt.
___I’ve been losing weight.
___My spine curves forward more than in the past.
___I have recently fractured my hip, wrist, or spine.
___I’m not sure if I get enough calcium in my diet.
___I don’t like dairy products.
___I didn’t like dairy products as a child.
___I don’t exercise very much.
___My muscles are weak or sagging.
___I take thyroid medication, anti-convulsive medication, or cortisone-like drugs.

For women:
___My ovaries have been removed.
___I’ve reached menopause.
___I had an early menopause.
___I’ve never been pregnant.
___Before menopause, I had long periods of amenorrhea (absence of menstrual cycle).
 
The more “yes” answers you have to any of these statements suggests that you may be at risk.
The good news is that you can often prevent osteoporosis if you begin weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, running, or aerobics, and eat a calcium-rich diet from an early age. And if you already have osteoporosis or you're at high risk for developing it, physical therapy can help make the difference in keeping you active and mobile.
Proper regular exercise can improve our strength and balance which helps prevent falls that can lead to fractures. Exercise also makes our bones strong. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day.
Physical therapists can custom-design a safe and effective exercise program to meet your needs. Physical Therapists can also give you tips on reducing your risk of falls and spinal fractures through proper use of body mechanics and making your home safe. In consultation with your physician, a licensed physical therapist can help reduce pain, prevent fractures, promote healing if a fracture is present, and help strengthen your bones through a program of exercise designed especially for you.
If you have concerns about osteoporosis, see your physician and be sure to inquire about a referral to a physical therapist if your physician thinks it is appropriate.