What is Recommended for Physical Activity and Exercise for Osteoporosis?

Across the globe, millions of people have osteoporosis and the numbers continue to climb.  Osteoporosis is traditionally treated with medications, diet, and exercises to address bone health, balance, and postural control.  It is important to understand the benefits of an appropriate and safe physical activity program in order to optimize comfort and function as well as positively impact longevity.

A consensus statement from the UK on physical activity and exercise for osteoporosis was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2022.   Here is what was suggested.

“For safety, we recommend avoiding postures involving a high degree of spinal flexion during exercise or daily life. People with vertebral fracture or multiple low trauma fractures should usually exercise only up to an impact equivalent to brisk walking. Those at risk of falls should start with targeted strength and balance training. Vertebral fracture symptoms may benefit from exercise to reduce pain, improve mobility and quality of life, ideally with specialist advice to encourage return to normal activities. Everyone with osteoporosis may benefit from guidance on adapting postures and movements. There is little evidence that physical activity is associated with significant harm, and the benefits, in general, outweigh the risks.”

If you’d like to read the full consensus statement, click on the link below.

https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/56/15/837

If you are seeking an individualized and safe exercise program in order to maximize your bone health, strength, posture, and balance, call Omaha Physical Therapy Institute today!

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