There typically isn’t only one treatment option used for osteoporosis. In fact, most treatment plans for this condition include a variety of different treatment techniques.
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become more brittle. It occurs when the natural loss of old bone is occurring faster than your body can create new bone. This condition is a very common one — it’s estimated that about 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density that increases their risk of this condition. One medical professional who can help you learn more about what the treatment is for osteoporosis is a physical therapist.
Some treatments that are commonly used for osteoporosis
Physical therapists are trained to treat the human musculoskeletal system, and this system includes your bones. These specialists often work with other medical professionals to help you get effective osteoporosis treatment.
A few of ways that this condition can be treated include:
- Taking prescription medication — There are a wide range of medications that your doctor might prescribe if you have osteoporosis. One commonly used medication is bisphosphonates that can help prevent the body from breaking down bone.
- Quitting smoking — Studies show that people who smoke have decreased bone density. Continuing to smoke after your osteoporosis diagnosis can increase your risk of bone fractures.
- Taking dietary supplements — Calcium and vitamin D are two nutrients that are key to your body’s ability to create new bone. However, many people are also not getting enough of these nutrients. This is why taking a calcium and vitamin D supplement daily can help osteoporosis patients. Other nutrients that you may want to consider taking supplements for include:
- Magnesium
- Vitamin K
- Boron
- Silicon
- Doing weight-bearing exercises — It’s recommended that osteoporosis patients do 30 to 40 minutes of weight-bearing exercises three or four days per week. Physical therapists can help you develop an exercise program that’s tailored to your needs. They can also help you ensure that you’re doing exercises with the proper form. This can help reduce the risk of bone fractures from doing exercises improperly.
Find effective osteoporosis treatment with help from Border Therapy Services
Searching for a physical therapy team that can add to your osteoporosis treatment? Our team of physical therapists at Border Therapy Services is just the team osteoporosis patients need on their side. We can get you started with a free screening. Even better, our physical therapists excel at building therapy plans that are personalized to each patient’s needs. You’ll also have access to our at-home care and virtual therapy services that allow you to get continuing care without leaving your home.
Contact our team today for more information about therapy services we offer for osteoporosis or to schedule an initial appointment.