Osteoporosis is a common condition characterized by decreased bone mineral density which can lead to an increased likelihood of fractures from low trauma forces resulting in hospitalizations and decreased quality of life. According to a 2010 CDC study, more than 10 million adults over the age of 50 had osteoporosis, with women having a higher likelihood (~30% of population, vs. men at ~16%). And with the consideration that osteoporosis increases with age, the lifetime risk of resulting fracture is 50% for women and 20% for men.[1]
Researchers recently took a closer look at the effectiveness of the current clinical practice guidelines and created a new and improved model for treatment. The new research shows that weight bearing exercises (such as walking, yoga, and tai chi) in combination with resistance training of varying loads were most effective in increasing bone mineral density in susceptible fracture locations such as the hips and base of the spine.
These guidelines are not universal. Fitness plans and treatments should be customized by a trained professional for each individual.
RVNAhealth is pleased to offer several upcoming and ongoing programs, aligned to osteoporosis prevention and treatment:
- Ongoing class: Balance & Beyond – Every Tuesday and Thursday, 12:00-1:00pm at RVNAhealth. An ongoing drop-in class (come for one or come for all!) that focuses on building muscle, restoring balance and improving your walk or jog, all while giving your brain a great workout! Learn more and register here.
- Ongoing class: Strength & Beyond – Every Tuesday 1:00-2:00pm, and every Thursday 11:00am-12:00pm at RVNAhealth. This class is a level up from the Balance & Beyond class and will have you moving through a series of upper and lower body strengthening, functional mobility, balance and cognitive stations all customized to meet your fitness level and goals. Learn more and register here.
- Past class: Beating Osteoporosis with Targeted Nutrition and Exercise – January 25th from 12:00-1:30pm. Join us at the Ridgefield Library to hear RVNAhealth experts discuss (and demonstrate!) key exercises to optimize bone health and how nutrition can help to prevent and improve Osteoporosis. Come prepared to move! Watch presentation HERE.
- Past class: Interactive Cooking Class – Three Bone-Building Recipes – January 27th from 4:30-5:45pm at RVNAhealth. Separate myth versus fact on all things osteoporosis and discuss mechanisms to promote bone health while cooking alongside RVNAhealth’s registered dietitian. Check back to our nutrition calendar for future offerings.
If you have questions regarding any of the above programs or would like to schedule an appointment with our therapists to create a program specialized to fit your needs, please contact us at 203.438.7862 or rehabcenter@RVNAhealth.org. We hope to see you soon!
[1] https://journals.lww.com/jgpt/Fulltext/2022/04000/Physical_Therapist_Management_of_Patients_With.9.aspx
