THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY IN THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF OSTEOPOROSIS

This article provides information about the role of physical therapy i n the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Prevention begins with an assessment for risk factors associated with developing osteoporosi s and includes a physical therapy program of exercises that stress wei ght bearing, posture, and strength; accident prevention techniques; an d patient education. In treating a person who has already developed os teoporosis, the initial focus in physical therapy is on diminishing th e pain and disability associated with the fractures that frequently re sult from the condition. Depending on the anatomic site of the fractur e, treatment will also include a graded exercise program focused on in creasing the patient's ambulation ability, strength, range of motion, and flexibility. The goal of treatment is to assist the patient in rea ching an optimal level of function within the constraints of the condi tion.