The Link Between Osteoporosis and Exercise
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Exercising has a significant positive impact on bone health, when done safely. I'm so passionate about getting the message out about the link between Osteoporosis and Exercise.
Osteoporosis is a condition of low bone mass, that leads to increased risk of fractures and reduced quality of life, particularly in ageing populations. 66% of Australians over 50 years old have low or very low bone mass; and usually they don't find out until they suffer a fracture! Unfortunately, fewer than 50% of people who suffer a hip fracture regain their previous functional level.
BUT the good news: by beginning, increasing, or varying your exercise loading, bone density can adapt! An Exercise Physiologist would consider prescribing a mix of weight-bearing exercises, resistance training, and balance training, whilst considering an individual’s other health conditions.
The key to being effective in the long term is to make sure it's done in a supervised way by trained experts. To understand why, here is all you need to know about the role of an Exercise Physiologist. Remember: Use it or lose it!
The below fact sheet has been prepared by Exercise is Medicine Australia in partnership with the network for Accredited Exercise Physiologists, ESSA.
For more information, check out our other blog Exercising With Osteoporosis - 5 Key exercise Recommendations
For more information or advice, please get in touch with Physio Inq Engadine. Whether you are a doctor who wants to prescribe exercise as medicine, or if you want a professional to design, guide and supervise your exercise regime to prevent, manage and treat bone density issues.
