Osteoporosis: a disease where the bones lose tissue and become brittle and fragile. In fact, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, 8.9 million fractures occur each year due to an osteoporotic fracture, or every three seconds. If you think you might be experiencing Osteoporosis, or you know you are, take a look at our guide. There are some physical therapy techniques that you can use to help with your recovery.

Warning Signs

Early symptoms of osteoporosis have little to no obvious symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms?

• Back pain
• Loss of height
• Stooped posture or frequent bone fracture

That’s by no means an exhaustive list of symptoms, but they tend to be the most common. Please do not self-diagnose yourself. It’s always important to go get looked at by a physical therapist or primary care physician. 

Women who have experienced menopause or those with Vitamin-D deficiencies are at higher risk to get osteoporosis, but just because you do not fall into either of those factors does not mean you are not at risk. It is definitely something to discuss with your doctor. If you experience any of the signs above, or pain or spine curvature, bring this up to your doctor.

Prevention

While you can not present osteoporosis 100% - one of the best ways you can “prevent” is to get diagnosed early. Be sure to be screened regularly, starting at 65. Healthy habits can also help to lessen your risk for osteoporosis. Exercising at least 30 minutes of day (including strength training) can help to strengthen your body. Of course a healthy diet is going to be essential in this as well - including plenty of calcium! Calcium is found in many vegetables and soy products. Last, you can talk to your doctor about your Vitamin-D intake.

Physical Therapy

Upon receiving an osteoporosis diagnosis, physical therapy can help you with a treatment plan to prevent further bone breakage, and recovery from a fracture. It is also a great preventative method, in addition to the methods listed above. Physical therapy will have exercises to help you build bone strength in various weight-bearing activities from walking to weight lifting. Your physical therapist will provide you with a routine that is the best for you-- one which you can work on in the office, and at home as well. This will help reduce your risk for future bone fractures.  

North Platte Physical Therapy is your go-to premier physical therapy group in rural Wyoming and western Nebraska with a variety of services, including assistance with osteoporosis management. Whether you are dealing with the affects of osteoporosis or want to take preventative action, you can count on our local offices to help you get strong. Learn more about osteoporosis and methods and procedures, and then fill out a contact form to get started.