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Osteoporosis

What is OSTEOPOROSIS?

Osteoporosis is a condition which our bones become weak and brittle. The human body is always absorbing and replacing bone tissue, however with osteoporosis not enough bone is being created to counter the bone removal.

There are 1.2 million Australians with osteoporosis and 6.3 million with low bone density.

Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis and is the clinical term used to describe a decrease in bone mineral density, but not low enough to be classified osteoporotic

How to diagnose osteoporosis:

People with osteoporosis or osteopenia have a low bone mineral density. Your bone mineral density (BMD) is determined via special imaging, called a DXA scan. These scans are a low-level x-ray and completed as an outpatient procedure, taking approximately 30 minutes. There are very few risks associated with a DXA scan.

Who is at risk for osteoporosis?

  • Physical inactivity

  • Females >65yrs; males >70yrs

  • >50yrs and broken a bone in the past

  • Biological parents or grandparents with osteoporosis

  • Previous surgery removing ovaries before menstruation periods ceased naturally

  • Poor dietary habits, smoking, alcohol

  • Some medications; e.g. cancer medications, corticosteroids, hormone or immunosuppressants

  • Some autoimmune conditions

  • Vitamin D deficiencies

HOWEVER, THERE ARE WAYS TO DECREASE YOUR RISK OF DEVELOPING OSTEOPOROSIS…

  • Get active – weight bearing exercises such as walking, jogging and resistance training

  • Diet supporting bone health – calcium, vitamin D and protein each day

  • Limit alcohol consumption

  • Decrease smoking

There are numerous management strategies for osteoporosis. Physiotherapy is very important for the management of osteoporosis, sometimes in-conjunction with medical management determined by your doctor.

How Neuro Junction can help…

We have a team of physiotherapists and occupational therapists who are able to aid in your management of osteoporosis. This largely includes exercise for bone health and strategies to decrease falls risks.

A physio will work with you to develop safe exercising routines; including strength, mobility and balance training.

Our Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists can integrate falls prevention strategies into your home/routine; which can include walking aid prescription, home modifications and advice/education. 

Visit Healthy bones Australia for further information.  

Jessica Nienhuis