Osteoporosis/Bone Health
Osteoporosis is a condition where the rate of bone loss is faster than bone regeneration, resulting in a loss of bone density. At Southside Physiotherapy Clinic we have designed safe and effective strength training programmes for sufferers, working in combination with ongoing advice and management. Osteoporosis is a rapidly increasing silent epidemic affecting approximately 30% of women and 14% of men over the age of 50. It is scientifically proven that exercise can maintain, prevent and restore bone mass density. We have a strong cohort of osteoporotic patients who regularly attend our Pilates classes in order to maintain and improve their bone density. The exercises are specially adapted for people with osteoporosis to ensure their safety.
If you have osteoporosis and you are interested in our Pilates classes, please click here
Signs and symptoms of osteoporosis include:
- Fracture of bones often following minimal trauma especially of the hip, wrist or Vertebra in the spine Back, neck or spinal pain
- Postural changes eg Dowager´s hump, spinal deformity
- Loss of height
- Diagnosis is generally through DEXA scan but may be after an osteoporosis related fracture.
Management/treatment generally consists of a combination of the following:
- Pain relief
- Safe and appropriate individual exercise
- Postural re-education
- Balance training/falls prevention
- Advice and education
- Exercise is essential for bone health particularly weight bearing exercises eg. Walking, jogging, dancing, weight training. Your physiotherapists have the expertise to advise you on an appropriate programme for you to follow and enjoy. See Pilates and Yoga.
Physiotherapy can be combined with all or some of the following:
- Drug therapy
- Calcium and Vitamin D supplements
- Nutritional advice
- Lifestyle changes eg smoking cessation
If you have osteoporosis and you are interested in our Pilates classes, please click here