Osteoporosis Treatment in Merrick & Amityville, NY
Bones are living tissues that should be constantly broken and replaced. However, due to aging and other conditions, this does not always happen, and the creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone, leading to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that affects and weakens bones, especially those of the hips, wrist, and spine, causing them to become brittle (prone to breaks), thinner, and less dense than they should be.
Osteoporosis and its effects may limit mobility and function, leading to a decline in overall quality of life. Despite the dangerous effects of osteoporosis, we offer effective treatment in Merrick & Amityville, NY. Through physical therapy, we offer the best treatment for osteoporosis in Merrick.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Risk factors that lead to the development of osteoporosis include:
- Aging: Aging is one of the most common risk factors associated with osteoporosis. Due to a decrease in bone density as you get older, your risk of developing osteoporosis is greater. People over the age of 50 are most likely to develop osteoporosis.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis compared to men. Older women may experience low levels of estrogen during menopause, leading to rapid bone loss.
- Hormonal imbalances: Hormones are chemical messengers coordinating different functions in the human body. Therefore, they play a part in the development and loss of bone. Excessive thyroid hormone, hyperparathyroidism, and low levels of estrogen/testosterone in women and men can lead to massive bone loss and weakening that causes osteoporosis.
- Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle choices and habits may also contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Lack of physical activities or exercises (sedentary lifestyle) and tobacco use can weaken the bones. Excessive alcohol consumption can also interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium (an important nutrient for the bones).
- Nutritional deficiency: Several nutrients are necessary for developing and maintaining healthy bones. Therefore, if your body lacks these nutrients, you may develop osteoporosis. Vitamin D and calcium deficiency can lead to bone thinning, which plays a major role in the development of osteoporosis. Also, general malnutrition and a low protein intake can affect bone density.
- Genetic factors: Genes also play a massive role in the development of osteoporosis. If you have a family history of fractures and osteoporosis, you may likely develop the condition too.
- Medications and medical conditions: Long-term use of certain medications, like corticosteroids and anticonvulsants, can lead to bone loss. Medical conditions, such as celiac disease, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also affect bone health and trigger the development of osteoarthritis.
Treatment for Osteoporosis in Merrick
Several treatment methods for osteoporosis exist, including medications, lifestyle changes, and even surgery. We offer physical therapy, the best treatment for Osteoporosis in Merrick.
How Does Physical Therapy Treat Osteoporosis?
Physical therapists have several techniques with which they treat and manage their patients’ conditions. For osteoporosis symptoms treatment in Merrick, physical therapy focuses on reducing the risk of fractures, enhancing bone strength, and improving overall physical function. Before beginning treatment, a physical therapist may comprehensively evaluate your condition to determine the best treatment procedure. A typical physical therapy program for osteoporosis includes:
Exercises
Exercise therapy is the primary physical therapy technique that can help treat and manage osteoporosis. It involves movements and physical activities to restore function, improve strength, and relieve pain. Exercise therapy helps build stronger bones and further slows down bone loss. Types of exercises for osteoporosis include:
Weight-bearing exercises
This type of exercise involves activities that require you to work against gravity while staying upright, with your bones supporting your weight. Examples of weight-bearing exercises include walking, jogging, dancing, high-impact/low-impact aerobics, and jumping rope.
Strength Training
This exercise involves strengthening the muscles, tendons, and bones to stimulate bone growth. Strength training employs lifting weights, resistance bands, and body weight. It supports bone density and builds back muscles necessary for posture.
Balance and Coordination Exercises
Due to their reduced bone density, people with osteoporosis are twice as likely to develop fractures. Therefore, physical therapy offers balance and coordination exercises to improve stability and reduce the risks of falls in people with osteoporosis. Examples of balance and coordination exercises include Tai Chi, single-leg balance, toe taps, and one-leg deadlifts.
Functional Training
People suffering from osteoporosis may find it difficult to perform their daily activities comfortably because of their limited function and movement. However, physical therapists offer functional training that mimics daily tasks to improve their patient’s abilities to perform daily activities without getting hurt or fractures.
Postural Training
Sometimes, poor posture can put so much pressure on the bones that they fracture if the individual suffers from osteoporosis. Postural training involves exercises like Pilates or yoga that help people suffering from osteoporosis develop good posture for even weight distribution and to reduce the strain on the bones.
During physical therapy for osteoporosis, your therapist may design exercises that meet your specific needs while considering your symptoms and other medical conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Strongest Treatment for Osteoporosis
Physical therapy is the strongest and latest treatment for osteoporosis in Merrick & Amityville, NY. Unlike other treatment methods, physical therapy is very effective and noninvasive. It does not have any side effects and reduces the risk of future complications.
What is your Life Expectancy with Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis itself is not fatal and does not influence your life expectancy. However, this condition can lead to severe complications that can lead to death. If detected early, you can live a normal life with osteoporosis with adequate treatment at Amityville and Merrick, NY.
Does Osteoporosis Get Worse Without Treatment?
Yes, osteoporosis can get worse without treatment. Your bones will get weaker, and you will be at great risk of developing fractures due to falls and other accidents. When left untreated, osteoporosis can lead to severe complications that have fatal consequences.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that weakens bones, making them more brittle and prone to fractures. This condition can limit physical function and movement, making it difficult to perform daily activities comfortably. However, with proper treatment at Summit Physical Therapy, you can live a normal life even when suffering from osteoporosis. We offer effective physical therapy services that help to treat and manage osteoporosis and prevent complications.
