By: Breanna Salazar, PT, DPT, Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
Our bones are important, and they play many roles in the body. They provide light-weight support and structure to our bodies for optimal movement; they protect our most important organs from trauma; the long bones are home to bone marrow, which is important in the production and maintenance of red and white blood cells; and they regulate calcium levels in our bodies for optimal functioning of our nerves and muscles
One of the most common disorders of bone health is osteoporosis. Our bones are made of ever-changing tissue based on our bodies’ needs. Bone tissue is in a constant state of building-up and breaking-down based on many factors. Osteoporosis occurs when our bodies break-down bone faster than it can build it up, leading to a decrease in bone density. This in return increases your risk of bone fractures.
There are many risk factors associated with osteoporosis, some of which can be managed. Risk factors may include:
- Age and gender – especially post-menopausal women of white and Asian descent
- This is due to falling estrogen levels
- Family history
- Smaller body frame, due to lower bone mass from a young age
- Medical history including: thyroid dysfunction, GI (stomach or bowel) dysfunction or surgery due to impaired nutrient absorption, and certain medications.
- Sedentary life-style
- Excessive alcohol or tobacco consumption
The most common complication of osteoporosis is bone fractures. Your hip, spine, and wrist are most vulnerable. Hip and wrist fractures are generally due to falls, and often times require surgery to repair. However, fractures in the spine are usually due to postural pressure, which causes the body of the vertebra to collapse on itself.
Treatment for osteoporosis usually comes from your physician. There are different medications which your physician can prescribe that can slow, or even reverse, the effects of bone loss over time. There are also preventative measures that can be taken such as dietary changes and the ever-elusive exercise.
How can PT help?
Exercise is an important aspect of long term care and management for people with osteoporosis. Bones are stimulated to produce more substance and grow when they are appropriately and properly stressed. Your PT will prescribe you with exercises that do just that, so that we may slow the progression of the bone loss. These exercises will include weight-bearing activities and resistance training. Your PT will also work with you to address any postural or balance deficits that may increase your risk of fracture.
Your PT will also work with you to minimize your risk of fractures. One major risk factors for fractures is falls. In people over the age of 65, falls account for up to 87% of fractures, most commonly in the hip, pelvis, and wrist. Therefore, your PT will work with you in order to address factors that may lead to falls, including addressing any strength and balance deficits, as well as working with you to address any potential hazards in your home environment.
Another potential risk of fractures is stooped posture. A stooped forward posture places increased pressure on the bony part of your vertebrae, and over time may lead to a compression or wedge fracture. A fracture of this nature in the spine further increases your risk of future fractures. Your PT will work with you in order to improve your posture, and to teach you safe mechanics for daily or recreational activities.
At the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, we are here for you! Please give us a call to schedule an appointment with our excellent physical and occupational therapists at 973-322-7500.
Bonus fact: The hyoid bone, located at the base of your tongue, is the only bone not connected to another. It plays a role in many important functions including speech, breathing, and swallowing.
Breanna Salazar PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
LSVT BIG certified
E-mail: Breanna.salazar@rwjbh.org
Bree is a physical therapist at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center in Livingston. She treats patients with both orthopedic and neurological conditions, with a special interest in craniofacial pain and temporomandibular joint dysfunctions. Bree completed her BS in biology at Ramapo College of NJ in 2014, and received her doctorate in physical therapy at Rutgers University in 2016. She completed LSVT Big certification in 2020 and is actively working towards her CCTT from the Physical Therapy Board of Craniofacial and Cervical Therapeutics. When she is not in the clinic, she enjoys walking with her dogs, spending time with family, and knitting.
The Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation centers are open and ready to help you achieve your goals. With four locations in West Orange, Millburn and Livingston, the experienced and compassionate staff at Cooperman Barnabas Rehabilitation offers adults and children the specialized care they need to resume an active life after surgery, injury or illness. They are committed to providing patients with the most advanced services in a safe, caring and soothing environment. For high-risk patients who are unable to visit in person, telehealth is an option. Patients do not need a prescription for physical therapy services.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 973-322-7500.