Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bone mass to decrease at a significant rate, resulting in the bones becoming fragile. This condition makes bones more susceptible to breaks and fractures. Incidents such as minor bumps, trips or falling out of bed can result in a fracture, making day-to-day life more challenging and fragile.
Research shows that Osteoporosis is most common in females above the age of 55. During menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly causing bone mineral loss, which increases the risk of Osteoporosis. According to Better Health Victoria, on average, women can lose up to 10 per cent of their bone mass in the first five years after menopause. Those who have fallen in the past, experienced early menopause or have a family history of hip fractures, are more likely to develop Osteoporosis.
Management for Osteoporosis
While there is no cure for Osteoporosis, exercise has been proven to decrease the risk and its associated injuries. Daily activity can help stabilise the rate that bone mass decreases and further improve an individual’s balance and muscle strength. Exercise Physiology is an effective method of increasing your exercise levels safely and effectively, if you have Osteoporosis.
Here at Progressive Physio, our physios focus on practical, achievable and functional exercises, tailored to you to improve your strength and daily mobility. In our purpose-built rehab gym, our team will guide you on resistance training and weight-bearing exercises that will improve your strength and increase bone mass. These methods of exercise are carefully managed to decrease the risk of fractures from occurring frequently.
Osteoporosis can significantly decrease an individual’s quality of life. Here at Progressive Physio, our team is dedicated to improving the everyday lifestyles of individuals in our community, allowing them to live more freely. If you or a family member have Osteoporosis, contact the team this week to take care of your health.