Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue. It is a common bone disease that affects both men and women as they age. There are several risk factors that can lead to osteoporosis such as age, gender, family history, weight, menopause, inactive lifestyle, smoking, alcohol abuse, certain medications, diseases, and a history of broken bones.

To keep your bones healthy, it is important to maintain a physically active lifestyle and good posture, and eat a balanced diet with plenty of calcium, Vitamin D, and perhaps other supplements as needed.

Inactivity is one of the major risk factors for osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, is an important way to build and maintain healthy bones. Muscle-strengthening exercises have been found to stimulate bone growth and help prevent and treat osteoporosis. The earlier you start these exercises in life the better, but it is important to know that you can begin exercising at any age and still receive the benefits.

If you have osteoporosis, are at high risk for a fall or fracture, or have a medical condition affecting your ability to exercise, do not begin an exercise program without first consulting your physician and a physical therapist. If you have osteoporosis, you should avoid the following exercises: sit-ups, crunches, bending down to tie your shoes, exercise machines that involve forward bending of the trunk, and movements and sports that round and twist the spine.

Physical therapists are experts in improving and restoring mobility, and play an important role in ensuring optimal bone health. Pinnacle Physical Therapists can design an individualized program to help keep your bones healthy. Give us a call to schedule your appointment. Call our Post Falls clinic at (208) 777-4242 or at our Coeur d'Alene office at (208) 665-2000.

- Pinnacle Physical Therapy