As people grow older, they experience many changes in their bodily functions. Their circadian rhythms change and diseases associated with age start setting in. Two of these age-related diseases are osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Osteopenia vs. Osteoporosis
Though these two conditions are vastly similar, they have some minor differences. Those in the medical community consider osteopenia a mild decrease in bone mass and bone mass density. This condition is common in people aged over 50 and especially in women. Osteoporosis, on the other hand, is the result of osteopenia- when the bone density reduces past a certain level, the bones weaken and begin to fracture at the slightest trauma.
Signs of Osteoporosis
Osteopenia on its own is quite harmless until it progresses to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is, therefore, the more noticeable of the two conditions as it has visible symptoms. Physical therapist at Absolute Physical Therapy in Houston, TX will give an osteoporosis diagnosis if he or she notices the following signs in you:
- A bending posture when walking
- Developing humpback
- Difficulty in motion, or in getting up after sitting for long periods
- Evidence of bone fracturing when viewed under an MRI
- Severe back pain
Treatment of Osteoporosis and Osteopenia at Absolute Physical Therapy
To treat osteoporosis and osteopenia, physical therapists in Houston, TX will use therapeutic exercises. However, these therapists will inform you that successful treatment of these conditions can only be achieved if you complete the therapeutic exercises with healthy dieting. After all, both conditions are caused by a deficiency in bone formation nutrients such as Vitamin D and calcium.
The first step in the physical therapy approach to treating osteoporosis is to register for the programs available. With physical therapy at Absolute Physical Therapy in Houston, TX treatment will begin as soon as you are diagnosed with the condition. Osteoporosis affects the fragility of the bones. Because of that, physical therapists at Absolute Physical Therapy will focus on promoting strength in the muscles that protect bones and in helping you prevent falls that lead to your bones breaking. Therefore, you can expect the following to be part of your treatment plan at Absolute Physical Therapy.
Weight-bearing Exercises
Your bones need to adapt to your weight so that they can be able to carry you. Physical therapists in Houston, TX will take you through such exercises to promote the endurance of your bones. Weight-bearing exercises include walking and more fun options like dancing.
Strength and Balance-building Exercises
Osteoporosis and osteopenia can lead to injuries such as back injury and knee injuries because the bones in these regions are more likely to fracture when you fall. Therefore, physical therapists Absolute Physical Therapy in Houston, TX will take you through exercises to prevent falls during your treatment. Exercises such as lunges will help you learn to maintain your balance for long periods, while others such as squats will help you build strong muscles. Stronger muscular density will protect your bones in case you fall therefore preventing back injury and bone fracturing.
Combining therapeutic exercises with the other guidelines that your physical therapist recommends is what will make for your effective treatment. Remember to always follow the regime you are given so that you can recover faster.
