Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a common condition with an estimated 1.2 million people diagnosed in Australia and a further 6.3 million people with low bone density. This disease makes bones more brittle leading to a higher risk of fractures than healthy bones. The condition is caused when the bones lose calcium more quickly than the body can replace them leading to a loss of bone thickness and density. Osteoporosis has no symptoms until a fracture occurs. Can occur in any bone, but is commonly found in the wrist, spine and hip. Fractures in the spine – known as wedge fractures occur in the elderly as a result of osteoporosis can result in height loss and changes in posture.
Risk Factors
• Family history of condition (hip fracture in a parent)
– Breast Cancer treated with Aromatase Inhibitors or Tamoxifen
– Prostate Cancer treated with Androgen Deprivation Therapy
• Medications that affect bone strength
• Experienced a broken bone after a minor bump or fall
– Steroid use for longer than 3 months (tablets or high-dose puffers)
• Low testosterone levels in men
• Coeliac Disease
• Hyperthyroidism or Hyperparathyroidism
• Chronic kidney or liver disease
• Low vitamin D levels
Preventing Falls:
Preventing Falls
For people with osteoporosis, preventing falls is vitally important as even a minor fall may cause a bone fracture.
Falls are most commonly caused by:
- Poor muscle strength
- Poor balance
- Poor vision
- Hazards around the home
Reducing Falls Risk:
- GP medical review and management
- Exercise to strengthen muscles and improve balance
- Improve nutrition
Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists can help with exercises to:
- Improve muscle strength, balance and flexibility
- Improve bone density and
- Reduce rate of bone density loss
- Improve balance and coordination
- Improve physical fitness
- Improve reaction time
- Improve mobility
- Reduce risk of falls
Reference:
Osteoporosis Australia website: www.osteoporosis.org.au
Other Links:
CTP Insurance Physiotherapy Claims
What to do after a car accident
Physiotherapy After A Car Accident
I Was Injured in a Car Accident. Do I Need to see a Physio?
Car Accident Injury And Treatment
Car Accident Injuries & Treatment: What to Expect Physically After an Accident
Whiplash: What You Should Know About This Common Car Accident Injury