15 Sep PT for those at risk for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

PT for those at risk for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

Lake Country Physical Therapy and Sportscare, led by physical therapist Zoe Fackelman, offers hands-on physical therapy services in Canandaigua, NY. They offer a wide range of services including therapies for osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Osteopenia refers to loss of bone mass and density but not enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteopenia is the predecessor to osteoporosis.

This is a very common condition in the elderly because bones naturally become weaker as people grow older. This is because existing bone cells are being absorbed faster than new bone are being made.  

Some people develop osteopenia but do not have bone loss, their bone density may just be lower. Men are also less likely to develop osteopenia and osteoporosis than women. Women are far more likely to develop osteopenia and osteoporosis than men.  There are no visible symptoms of osteopenia although you do pose a greater risk to breaking a bone.

Osteoporosis is the precursor condition to osteopenia, in which bones become brittle and break more easily. This bone loss happens at a more rapid rate due to lack of calcium or hormonal changes. Even simple activities or minor falls can cause bones to break.

Both Osteoporosis and Osteopenia are serious conditions and a doctor should be consulted to seek treatment. Broken bones can occur as well as loss of height or other health problems. A physical therapist should be consulted regularly to avoid these injuries.

By using PT you can receive prevention education and treatment programs to improve your osteopenia and osteoporosis symptoms. Some of the therapies offered at Lake Country Physical Therapy and Sportscare include fall prevention, balance activity, proper body exercises, braces or orthotics, and pain management. Screening is also available to patients to classify their peak bone mass.