Elsevier

Manual Therapy

Volume 5, Issue 4, November 2000, Pages 198-213
Manual Therapy

Masterclass
The role of physiotherapy in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

https://doi.org/10.1054/math.2000.0369Get rights and content

Abstract

Osteoporosis is an increasing public health problem that causes loss of life and reduced quality of life in sufferers. Strategies to improve bone density and reduce the likelihood of falls are important in the prevention of osteoporosis. Physiotherapists have a role to play in this condition through exercise prescription, therapeutic modalities, specific techniques and education. Appropriate treatment goals can be established following a thorough assessment of signs and symptoms, risk factors for osteoporosis and functional status. Levels of bone density measured from dual energy X-ray absorptiometry can help guide patient management. Since the aim is to maximize peak bone mass in children and adolescents, participation in a variety of high-impact activities should be encouraged. In the middle adult years, small increases in bone mass may be achieved by structured weight-training and weight-bearing exercise. In the older adult years, particularly if osteopenia or osteoporosis is present, the aim is to conserve bone mass, reduce the risk of falls, promote extended posture, reduce pain, and improve mobility and function.

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  • Cited by (0)

    BappSc (Physio), PhD, Associate Professor and Director, Centre for Sports Medicine Research and Education, School of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, Australia, Karim Khan MD, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Family Practice (Sports Medicine) & School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Heather McKay, PhD, Associate Professor, School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

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    Correspondence to KB, School of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, 200 Berkeley St, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia. Tel.:+61 3 8344 4171; Fax: +61 3 8344 4188.

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