Osteoporosis therapy

Some 44 million Americans, or 55 percent of those 50 and older, have osteoporosis. A bone disease that compromises the skeletal structure, osteoporosis can leave the body vulnerable to a fracture or unable to support itself. While medications are available, prevention is considered the most viable approach to avoiding fractures.

Nevertheless, there are various treatments that can slow the progress or mitigate the effects of osteoporosis.

"Our treatment program," says Community Hospital's Marta Lynch, occupational therapist, "includes physical and occupational therapy and dietary consultation with a clinical dietitian. We address issues of posture, strength, balance, and gait. Our goal is to facilitate movement, prevent falls, and help protect the spine. We're trying to help patients so they don't injure themselves, and particularly so they don't fall and break a hip."

On a practical level, the focus is on how to live everyday life with osteoporosis, how to engage in routine activities functionally and safely. For instance, what is the best way to pick up a laundry basket? Weed the garden? Get out of a car?

Based on a doctor's referral, one-on-one treatment programs are customized for each patient. Therapies may include home safety and fall prevention suggestions, upper body strengthening, and weight-bearing exercises, as well as calcium supplements and other dietary recommendations.