Physical Therapy
Osteoporosis

What is Osteoporosis?
It is a disease in which the bones become thin and brittle. They break easily due to loss of calcium and changes in the bone microarchitecture. It is possible for osteoporosis to be happening to you without your knowing it.

Common Misconceptions About Osteoporosis:

• It only affects older women
  Fact: It can affect young and old, men as well as women.



• It won't affect me because I exercise every day
  Fact: If a premenopausal woman exercises in excess, she could stop her periods by stopping the production of estrogen and therefore develop osteoporosis.



• If I drink milk and take calcium supplements I won't develop osteoporosis
  Fact: If you take antacids that contain aluminum or drink alcohol and caffeine in considerable amounts you will loose calcium no matter how much milk or supplements you take.



• Smoking will not hurt my bones
  Fact: Smoking accelerates bone loss, and reduces estrogen production.

Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy can help you prevent bone loss and fractures as well as help you strengthen the bones by educating you on:

• What osteoporosis is and what you can do to minimize its adverse effects in your life
• The need for using good body mechanics and correct posture during your daily activities

Physical Therapy will also help you with designing an exercise program specific to your needs in order to:

• Increase General Strength
• Increase Overall Flexibility
• Decompress the Spine
• Decrease Pain Symptoms
• Maintain Proper Posture
• Achieve Good Body Mechanics

We have a comprehensive approach for the treatment of osteoporosis. Please call our Central Registration number to schedule your appointment.

Self Assessment
This self assessment can help you determine risk factors that you may want to discuss with your physician. Check the statements that apply to you:

• Reproductive History
  • First Period at 16 or After Irregular Periods Prior To Menopause
  • Never Been Pregnant
  • Natural Menopause Before Age 40
  • Ovaries Removed Before Age 40
  • Five or More Years Since Menopause and Not on Hormone Replacement
  • Premenopausal But Not Having Periods


• Medical History
  • Family History Of Osteoporosis
  • More Than One Inch Loss In Height
  • Spontaneous Fractures (not caused by trauma)
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Overactive Thyroid
  • Parathyroid Disease
  • Gastrectomy (stomach surgeries)
  • Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Periodontal Gum Disease
  • Chronic Diarrhea
  • Lactose Intolerance
  • Eating Disorder
  • Have you taken any of these medications for more than a year?
    • Diuretics
    • Anticonvulsants
    • Cortizone, Steroids
    • Antacids That Contain Aluminum
    • Thyroid Medication


• Daily Lifestyle
  • Do Not Exercise
  • Exercise Excessively
  • Smoking More Than One Pack of Cigarettes a Day
  • Drinking More Than Five Cups of Caffeinated Beverages (coffee, tea, cola) a Day
  • Drinking More Than Two Alcoholic Beverages a Day
  • Eating A Low Calcium Diet

If you checked off the statements in bold, you are at higher risk, than if you checked the ones that are NOT in bold. The more risk factors you check off the higher the need for you to make changes and take steps for prevention. Please consult with your physician as your first step. Your physician may recommend physical therapy for you.

We have a comprehensive approach for the treatment of osteoporosis. Please call our Central Registration number to schedule your appointment.