Osteoporosisw St. Louis, Creve Coeur, Ellisville, Saint Peters, Saint Charles & O’Fallon, MO

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common disease that causes thinning and weakening of bones.  It can affect people of any age, but women are at the greatest risk.  It is most commonly seen in individuals older than 50 years of age.  Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone density, decreased bone strength, and changes in bone structure.  Individuals with osteoporosis are at a higher risk for fractures.

There are many risk factors for osteoporosis.  Some can be controlled and others cannot.  Lifestyle changes, especially early in life, can make a difference in your bone health.  Controllable risk factors include:  cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol intake, inactive lifestyle, excessive caffeine consumption, drugs, low weight, Calcium-poor diet, low vitamin D levels, and lack of weight-bearing exercise.

Physical therapy can help some individuals with osteoporosis by developing a specific program to increase bone formation, improve posture to protect the spine from fracture, proper body mechanics, balance training, and education in strategies to decrease fall risk at home. 

Bone grows when it is properly stressed.  Properly dosed weight-bearing and resistance exercises can help increase bone density.  Areas that are most prone to fractures in individuals with osteoporosis include: 

  • hip
  • spine
  • shoulder
  • arms

In addition to increasing bone density, appropriate exercise can improve balance and posture, increase strength in the back and other musculature, and improve hip strength and mobility to facilitate proper movement.

Children and adolescents with health issues can be at risk for osteoporosis.  Children with spina bifida, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and cerebral palsy are all at a greater risk for bone disease.  Proper guidance in physical conditioning can help build bone to decrease the effects of poor bone density later in life. 

If you suffer from osteoporosis and think you may be a candidate for physical therapy, ask your health care provider if they think physical therapy is right for you. For more information, Contact

our physical therapist today at St. Louis, Creve Coeur, Ellisville, Saint Peters, O’Fallon, Saint Charles, Warrenton & Wentzville, MO Centers.