Osteoporosis: Exercise Safely

According to the American Physical Therapy Association, Physical Therapists are “Experts in Motion” and can help, design and teach you a safe an effective way to exercise, especially if you have Osteoporosis.

Here’s what someone who recently attended our wellness lecture on Osteoporosis at Physical Therapy at Jefferson Valley, given by Assistant Director Debbie Lenihan, PT had to say:

“I want to tell you what a wonderful class Physical Therapist, Debbie Lenihan gave on Osteoporosis and Exercise a few weeks ago. No one has ever addressed the need for modification and accommodation in exercise in their class for those who have osteoporosis or are simply older women (or men). Deb's class has changed my life and has given me the motivation to feel confident in the choices I make with machines, with stretching, with weights, and in classes through her instruction based on the work of Ms. Meeks in her book, Walking Tall…”

“The whole concept of why the body begins to tighten in the front muscles, bringing the back into a hunched position was addressed by Deb, with ways to counteract this and still develop core and muscle strength while staying flexible. Do's, don'ts, types of exercises to do and not to do, etc. were part of this lecture and hands on class. Kudos to her!”

Exercise Tip:

It is important to address some basic concerns for types of exercise that are not safe. First and foremost, any exercise that emphasizes trunk bending is contraindicated, side-bending and trunk twisting should be done with caution. When working out in the gym or independently, avoid any exercise that involves the above trunk movement especially exercises that combines these movements.

It is important to avoid knee to chest exercise, toe touches, straight leg raise or raising both legs together. Use caution when working out in the gym on any seated exercises using machines. The rule of thumb is to avoid machines that cause increased compression on the spine or bend the spine.

If you would like to improve your current level of fitness, or have had an injury or illness, but still have questions about how to begin a safe exercise program our experienced and dedicated licensed physical therapist can help you get started. 

Reference: American Physical Therapy Association. Move Forward. Physical Therapy Brings Motion to Life.