Osteoporosis is a serious medical condition that would increase the risk of fractures due to the loss of bone mass and density. People of all age groups are at risk of developing osteoporosis, though older people are considered to be a higher risk category. People who are genetically predisposed to osteoporosis also have a higher chance of developing the condition. Treatment of osteoporosis includes appropriate diet and lifestyle changes combined with medication and physical therapy.
Diagnosis Of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that progresses silently, without any evident symptoms, until the first bone fracture happens. Recovering from a fracture caused by osteoporosis is very difficult, especially for older people. The best way to pre-empt this situation is to do regular osteoporosis screening to get an early diagnosis. The sooner you come to know about the onset of osteoporosis, the faster you can start treatment and the better your prognosis will be. Older people, especially older women and menopausal women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis due to their fluctuating hormone levels. Younger people who have a family history of osteoporosis are also a high-risk category. If you or any of your loved ones belong to one of these categories, it is advisable to get them screened at regular intervals for the onset of this silent disease.
The Role Of Physiotherapy In Osteoporosis Treatment
The treatment of osteoporosis involves the use of medication to strengthen bones and muscles. Loss of calcium from bones is also countered with diet changes and supplements. Physical therapy or physiotherapy plays an important role in improving the overall quality of osteoporosis patients. Your physical therapist would evaluate your movements after being diagnosed or after an injury. They would customize a regimen that is best suited for your condition. This physical therapy routine will be based on the extent of progression, the severity of the injury and how these factors have impaired your natural body movement.
Physical therapy can help strengthen weak bones and muscles over a period of months. The movements customized to treat the condition for each individual can help with increasing their balance and prevent further falls. Physiotherapy is helpful in both the recovery and management of osteoporosis. It can help reduce pain caused by osteoporosis. Physical therapy is also helpful in rehabilitation after an injury caused by osteoporosis.
The focus of physical therapy is to regain as much motor capabilities as possible in a slow and sustainable manner. Once you start doing physical therapy, you might be advised to continue doing the best version possible for the rest of your life to prevent further progression of the condition.
