Being told you have osteoporosis or osteopaenia can be scary and unexpected! These are common conditions affecting 66% of Australians over 50, but often going unnoticed until a fracture occurs1.
Osteoporosis is a condition when bones lose density and become weak and more likely to fracture. Osteopaenia is characterized by low bone density that has not progressed to the severity of osteoporosis1.
Our bone density naturally declines with age, so it is important to actively prevent this with lifestyle choices1.
Am I at risk?
Below are the common risk factors for Osteoporosis1, you can speak to your GP about getting a DEXA bone scan if you are worried about your risk level.
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Low Calcium or Vitamin D intake
- Low physical activity
- Smoking, excessive alcohol intake
- Long-term use of corticosteroids
- Conditions such as diabetes, coeliac disease, thyroid dysfunction, anorexia, liver or kidney disease and breast cancer
- Aged over 50 years
What can I do?
The good news is, there are ways to manage and improve your bone health! Ensuring your diet contains enough Vitamin D and Calcium, and participating in regular exercise is crucial1.
Research has found that the type of exercise is extremely important! For bones to respond positively to exercise, they must undergo a level of impact and strain.
The ONERO program has been specifically designed for individuals with osteoporosis and osteopaenia and has shown to maintain and even increase bone density! The program is based on the most up to date research and evidence and focusses on supervised resistance (strengthening), balance and impact exercise2.
Call us at Back In Motion Eltham on 9439 6776 to undergo an ONERO assessment if you would like to take action in optimizing your bone health. We’re one of four clinics in Victoria who run the program, with classes each day of the week.
This blog is written by Maddy Dawson, Physiotherapist at Back In Motion Eltham.
References:
- Healthy Bones Australia. https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/ Accessed 19 May, 2021.
- The Bone Clinic. “Onero”. https://theboneclinic.com.au/onero/ Accessed 19 May, 2021.