Modern & measurable results
Physical therapy for osteoporosis.
From birth, our bodies are developing nonstop. First we grow from baby to strong taxable people with a physical peak often around age 25. After that, we do notice that we slowly start to age. This process is visible outside (think of the skin), but is just as much going on inside. After an average of our 45th year of life, the breakdown of bone will start to accelerate compared to the creation of the new. In women, we see that this process accelerates even more because estrogen levels decrease after menopause. At the time when bone density decreases, osteoporosis (osteoporosis) may possibly occur. The presence of osteoporosis makes bones very porous and thus a lot more vulnerable in case of a fall, for example.
The fast facts:
- Osteoporosis is most common in people over the age of 50.
- Your lifestyle strongly influences the development of osteoporosis.
- With proper nutrition and strength training, you are in control!
Osteoporosis or osteopenia
At the moment when the quality of the bones decreases a little we do not immediately speak of osteoporosis. Between a "normal" bone density and osteoporosis we still place the designation osteopenia. This literally translated means "a shortage of bone. Of having osteopenia you feel nothing and in many cases you notice little. Having osteopenia does not immediately lead to an increased risk of bone fractures. However, it is important to take action when osteopenia is detected. This is to prevent osteoporosis, with osteoporosis the risk of a fracture is greater.
Gradations of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is most commonly seen in the hips/pelvis and back. It is often discovered after the occurrence of a fracture and/or abnormal length loss. To estimate whether and to what extent osteoporosis is present, a classification is used;
- a T-score of -1.0/+1.0 (no problem)
- a T-score of -1.0/-2.5 (osteopenia)
- A T-score of -2.5 or lower (osteoporosis)
Risk factors for developing osteoporosis
Several factors are known to contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids (prednisolone)
- A low body weight (BMI <20)
- Smoking
- Menopause in women
- Little physical activity
In addition, osteoporosis can also occur in combination with other conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- Intestinal problems
- Rheumatoid arthritis (and related conditions)
- COPD
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is diagnosed by a DEXA scan. This is a device that can determine the degree of bone density by means of X-rays. In the Netherlands, people older than 50 after a bone fracture are also called for a DEXA scan. This helps to detect osteoporosis in time and advise people to start treatment plans. In addition, blood tests are often done to determine if there is next vitamin D and calcium present in the body.
Symptoms in Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis itself is painless. So you don't notice it at first. It only becomes a problem when you fall and possibly break something. After a bone fracture, osteoporosis is usually diagnosed through a dexa-scan. So the fracture is what causes the symptoms.
A fracture in the spine mainly causes symptoms during movement. For example, getting up from a chair then causes the pain in the back. With a somewhat hunched posture it is less painful. This is often also typical in people with osteoporosis. We call this posture kyphosis.
The treatment of osteoporosis
As we get a little older, our body's need for calcium increases. Calcium is needed for the good condition of our bones. Calcium is found in foods such as; dairy, soy and various vegetables/nuts/legumes. Do you find it difficult to get enough calcium with these products? Then you can discuss with your (family) physician whether it is useful to use extra calcium tablets.
Calcium by itself can do little without vitamin D. The body desperately needs vitamin D to absorb calcium into the blood and bind it to the bones. Ensuring adequate vitamin D in the body is done by getting outside enough. In fact, sunlight is a natural stimulant for vitamin D production. In addition, you can include certain products in your diet such as fatty fish, butter, meat and eggs. Do you find it difficult to get enough calcium and/or vitamin D. Sometimes supplements can be a good addition. Consult your doctor or physician about this.
Needless to say, we think it's good if you pay attention to calcium and vitamin D intake with osteoporosis. However, nutrition with additional minerals and vitamins are not enough. In fact, research shows little to no results with just calcium and vitamin D intake. What does? A combination must be made with physical activity. Exercise stimulates our bone production, regardless of age or degree of osteoporosis. Various scientific studies have already shown that strength training in particular has a positive effect on the production of bone tissue. Besides the fact that this form of training is good for the bones, we also see positive effects on the quality of joints, muscle strength and muscle mass.
Rehabilitation at Physio Fitaal
With osteoporosis, you have come to the right place with the physiotherapists at Fysiofitaal. With our extensive knowledge on active aging and training we can optimally guide you to independently inhibit or improve osteoporosis. In addition, our approach ensures that the risk of falling decreases. This makes it possible for you to continue daily activities and hobbies without problems. To achieve the right results, it is necessary to keep exercising and moving. So think about the long term!
Making an appointment.
"*" indicates required fields
Blogs.
No settings found for the grid #6.