What is osteoporosis?

What is osteoporosis?

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Osteoporosis is a chronic, progressive bone disease characterized by low bone mass and impaired bone quality. It leads to increased bone fragility and a higher risk of fractures. The word "osteoporosis" means "porous bones" because the bones affected by this condition become weaker and more susceptible to fractures.

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Normally, the body continuously breaks down old bone tissue and replaces it with new bone tissue in a process called remodeling. In osteoporosis, this balance is disrupted, and the rate of bone breakdown exceeds the rate of new bone formation. As a result, the bones become less dense, lose their structural integrity, and are more prone to fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, wrists, and ribs.

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Common symptoms of osteoporosis

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Osteoporosis is known as the “silent disease”, because the symptoms may not be apparent until a fracture occurs. Common signs and complications of osteoporosis include:

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1. Fractures: A recent fracture at any major site such as the spine, hips, wrists, and ribs on an adult older than 50 years old, with or without trauma suggests osteoporosis and needs further urgent assessment and treatment.
2. Loss of height and postural changes: Postural changes may include; forward head, stooped posture and other deviations in alignment. Loss of overall body height is common, after spinal compression fracture. 
3. Pain and muscle spasm: Fractures due to osteoporosis can affect any site of the body, causing localized, dull aching pain and muscle spasm on the affected area. 

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What causes osteoporosis?

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Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance between bone formation and bone resorption, leading to decreased bone density and increased bone fragility. It can be classified as primary or secondary osteoporosis. Primary Osteoporosis, the most common and can occur in both genders at all ages but often follows menopause in women, and occurs later in life in men. Osteoporosis associated with medications, other conditions or diseases is referred to as secondary osteoporosis. There are several risk factors that contribute to the development of osteoporosis:

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1. Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age. As people get older, the rate of bone formation decreases, while the rate of bone resorption increases. This leads to a gradual decline in bone density over time.
2. Hormonal factors: Hormonal imbalances or disorders can contribute to osteoporosis. Postmenopausal women are at higher risk to develop the disease, due primarily to decreased estrogen production. Estrogen helps prevent bones from getting weaker, its reduction speeds up bone loss. Male hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency) is also associated with loss of bone mineral mass. Hormonal risk factors include other medical conditions affecting hormone production such as; hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone production), hyperparathyroidism (excessive parathyroid hormone production), and cushing disease (excessive cortisol/stress hormone production). These hormonal related disorders can trigger osteoporosis. 
3. Family history: Having a family history of osteoporosis or fractures can predispose individuals to develop the condition. Genetic factors play a role in determining an individual's bone density and susceptibility to bone loss.
4. Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Lack of regular weight-bearing exercise, sedentary behavior, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can all increase the risk.
5. Medical conditions and medications: Certain medical conditions and medications can contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Examples include long-term use of corticosteroid medications, which have been associated with the presence of the disease. People with a wide range of medical conditions such as asthma, arthritis, chronic pulmonary disease, and others may be taking corticosteroids.
6. Nutritional deficiencies: Different sources of dietary nutrients may have different effects on bone metabolism. Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, essential nutrients for bone health, can contribute to reduced bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
7. Body weight and body composition: Being underweight or having a low body mass index (BMI) can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, individuals with low muscle mass or certain eating disorders may be more susceptible to bone loss.

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It's important to note that while these factors increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, they do not guarantee its occurrence. Osteoporosis is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors.

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How can physical therapy help? 

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Physical therapy plays a valuable role in the management and treatment of osteoporosis. While it cannot reverse the condition, physical therapy can help improve strength, balance, posture, and overall physical function. The primary goals of physical therapy for osteoporosis are to reduce the risk of falls and fractures, improve bone health, and enhance quality of life. Here are some ways in which physical therapy can help individuals with osteoporosis:

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1. Exercise programs: Physical therapists can design safe and tailored exercise programs to improve muscle strength, flexibility, coordination and balance. Different types of exercises such as weight-bearing, aerobic, and resistance exercises are recommended for patients with osteoporosis. These exercises can help stimulate bone growth, enhance bone density, and reduce the risk of fractures.
2. Posture and body mechanics: Physical therapists can provide guidance on proper posture, body mechanics, and movement techniques to minimize the risk of vertebral fractures and promote optimal spinal alignment. They may teach safe and appropriate techniques for lifting, bending, and performing daily activities with proper form to protect the spine.
3. Fall prevention strategies: Physical therapists can assess an individual's fall risk and provide exercises and strategies to improve strength, balance, coordination, and reaction time. They may also address environmental hazards and educate on fall prevention measures to reduce the risk of falls and subsequent fractures.
4. Core stabilization exercises: Strengthening the core muscles, including the abdominal and back muscles, can improve trunk stability and support the spine, reducing the risk of fall, vertebral fractures and promoting better posture.
5. Flexibility and range of motion exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can help maintain or improve flexibility, joint mobility, and range of motion. This can alleviate muscle tightness and stiffness associated with osteoporosis.
6. Pain management: Physical therapists can use various modalities, such as heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, or manual therapy techniques, to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with osteoporosis. They may also educate individuals on self-management strategies for pain relief.
7. Education and lifestyle modifications: Physical therapists can provide education on proper nutrition, including calcium and vitamin D intake, to support bone health. They can also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy body weight, to minimize further bone loss and promote overall well-being.
8. Home Exercise Program: Physical therapists create a specialized home exercise program and teach safe execution to reinforce the interventions. They also teach the patients how to incorporate it into their daily routine, to promote an active lifestyle.

It's essential to work with a physical therapist who has experience and expertise in managing osteoporosis. They can develop an individualized treatment plan based on a person's specific needs, abilities, and fracture risk. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific condition and to ensure safe and effective management of osteoporosis.

Trust PeteHealth for osteoporosis treatment

Looking for a physical therapist to help you manage and treat osteoporosis? PeteHealth is the trusted physical therapy solution that you can access on your schedule, bringing you the care you need wherever you need it – including your home or office. Our licensed physical therapists are at the top of their profession, and we accept most insurance carriers.

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Finally – the all-in-one, professional, convenient approach to physical therapy that you deserve with PeteHealth.

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