Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them more fragile and prone to fracture. Because there are usually no symptoms until a fracture occurs, it is often referred to as a “silent disease.” Over 2 million people in the United Kingdom suffer from this condition, the majority of whom are women over the age of 50. 

The exact cause of osteoporosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and hormonal factors. Risk factors include: 

• Age: The risk increases as you age, especially for women after menopause 
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men 
• Genetics: A family history increases the risk of developing the condition 
• Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and low calcium and vitamin D intake can increase the risk

The hip, spine, and wrist are the most common sites of osteoporosis fractures. Fractures can cause severe pain, loss of function, and a decrease in quality of life. However, the risk of fractures can be reduced with proper diagnosis and treatment. 

The goal of treatment is to prevent bone fractures and improve overall bone health. Treatments may include: 

• Medications: There are several medications available to treat osteoporosis, including bisphosphonates, denosumab, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Your doctor will determine which medication is most appropriate for you based on your individual needs and health status. 
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements: Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. Your doctor may recommend supplements to ensure that you’re getting enough of these nutrients. 
• Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help improve bone health. 

Treatment for osteoporosis often consists of a combination of medication, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes. Physiotherapy can also help with osteoporosis management. R3 Physiotherapy provides a comprehensive approach to osteoporosis management, incorporating specialised exercises and techniques to improve strength, balance, and posture. 

Prevention: 

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk: 

• Eat a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. 
• Exercise regularly, especially weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, or weightlifting. 
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. 
• Have regular bone density scans, especially if you have risk factors for osteoporosis. 

Physiotherapy can help in several ways: 

1. Exercise Programs: A customized exercise program designed by a physiotherapist can help improve bone density, strength, and balance. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises have been shown to be particularly effective in improving bone health. 
2. Posture Correction: Poor posture can increase the risk of fractures in people with osteoporosis. A physiotherapist can identify postural imbalances and provide exercises and techniques to improve posture and reduce the risk of fractures. 
3. Fall Prevention: Falls are a significant risk factor for fractures in people with osteoporosis. A physiotherapist can help identify and address factors that contribute to falls, such as muscle weakness, balance problems, and environmental hazards. 

Our physiotherapists at R3 Physiotherapy have extensive experience managing osteoporosis and can provide personalised exercise programmes and techniques to improve bone health and reduce the risk of fractures. We also employ cutting-edge technology, such as the Functional Scanner, to detect any postural maladaptation and offer hands-on techniques, such as manipulation and mobilisation, to address any musculoskeletal imbalances. 

In conclusion, osteoporosis is a common condition that can result in fractures and significant loss of function and quality of life. However, fractures can be reduced with proper diagnosis and treatment. Physiotherapy, particularly at R3 Physiotherapy, can help to manage osteoporosis by improving bone density, strength, balance, and posture. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, please contact us to learn more about how we can assist you. 

References

Compston JE, McClung MR, Leslie WD. Osteoporosis. Semin. 2019;393(10169):364-376. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)32112-3.

Salari N, Ghasemi H, Mohammadi L, Behzadi MH, Rabieenia E, Shohaimi S, Mohammadi M. The global prevalence of osteoporosis in the world: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2021 Oct 5;16(1):609. doi: 10.1186/s13018-021-02798-w. PMID: 34610956; PMCID: PMC8499335.