You’ve probably heard of osteoporosis, especially if you’re a woman approaching menopause. But did you know that 1 in 2 women aged over 50 and 1 in 5 men will break bones due to the condition? But what exactly is osteoporosis, and how do we approach its treatment in our clinics?
What is osteoporosis?
According to the NHS, osteoporosis is ‘a health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break (fracture).’
It’s a painless condition; a broken bone is often the first sign of osteoporosis. The characteristic forward stoop of some older people is down to osteoporosis in the spine, which makes it difficult for the bones to bear the body’s weight upright.
What causes osteoporosis?
Women have an increased risk of osteoporosis when compared to men, especially if the menopause begins early (before the age of 45) or they have had surgery to remove their ovaries. This is because women lose bone mass rapidly in the first few years after the menopause.
However, men and younger women are also at risk of the condition. The following situations increase that risk;
- taking high-dose steroid tablets for over 3 months
- experiencing inflammatory conditions, hormone-related conditions, or malabsorption problems
- a family history of osteoporosisÂ
- long-term use of medicines that can affect bone strength or hormone levels, for example, anti-oestrogen tablets after breast cancer
- having or having had an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia
- having a low body mass index (BMI)
- not exercising regularly
- heavy drinking and smoking
What exercise helps your bones?
Research has shown that more intense impact and muscle-strengthening exercises may improve bone strength. A programme of suitable exercises could potentially boost bone density and lessen the risk of fractures
Three types of exercise and movement have been shown to support your bone mass. These exercises
- help build your bone strength and lessen your chance of breaking a bone
- improve your balance and muscle strength to help prevent fallsÂ
- care for your back.Â
All three types of exercise are important for your bones. It’s important to build in all three types of exercise for strong bones. We can support you to design and enjoy your own programme of exercise that’s at a level suitable for you and your lifestyle.
Research proves that programmes such as LIFTMOR (Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation) are both safe and effective in improving bone mass. The LIFTMOR programme utilises specific, progressive resistance training.
The Osteo and Physio approach to treating osteoporosis
We have developed a research-backed, supervised class exercise program suitable for preventative and remedial treatment of bone density issues. It will be on offer at selected branches from March 2025.
If you are worried about osteoporosis or have a diagnosis, why not book an appointment with one of our expert practitioners?
Book your appointment now
It couldn’t be easier to book your appointment with Osteo & Physio! Book a session via our app, website or call our friendly reception team on 0345 5577788
