Excel PT: OP and Fall Prevention

Excel PT: OP and Fall Prevention

EXCEL PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICIAN UPDATE

A Courtesy Publication for the Medical Community

THE BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR OSTEOPOROSIS & FALL PREVENTION

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EXC PHYS

A Courtesy Publication fo

The Benefits Of Physical Therapy F

An estimated one-third of adults age 65 and over fall every year. While some falls do not result in injury, a fall that does result in injury can lead to loss of independence and limiting of daily activities due to heightened fear of falling. This ultimately initiates an overall lower quality of life. Risk factors for falls include muscle weakness, problems with balance and gait, and a previous history of falls. Falling once unfortunately increases your patient's risk of falling again.

By Alexis Del Palazzo, PT, DPT, Kennett Square Clinic

A person with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, has an increased risk of falling and an even greater risk of bone fractures. Key joints most commonly affected include the spine, hip, and wrist. Bone fractures can cause serious disability and even death. Post-menopausal women are at higher risk for fracture due to hormonal changes that negatively affect bone health.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis:

• Female gender • Caucasian or Asian race • Thin and small body frames • A family history of osteoporosis • Hormonal changes, or low estrogen levels • Poor nutrition, a diet low in calcium

• Cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption • Lack of exercise • Amenorrhea • Chronic diseases

• Vitamin deficiencies • Certain medications

Fortunately, there are many modifiable factors that can reduce risk including quitting smoking, maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and including weight-bearing exercise in your patient's workout routine.

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CEL PHYSICAL THERAPY ICIAN UPDATE

or the Medical Community

For Osteoporosis & Fall Prevention

Management of Osteoporosis and Fall Risk Is it possible to slow down the progression of osteoporosis and also reduce one’s risk for falls? Absolutely! Load-bearing exercise, or any type of exercise that places a load through the joints such as walking or strength-training with dumbbells is an appropriate way to slow the progression of osteoporosis, improve bone health, and subsequently reduce the risk for fracture. Women should not be afraid to use dumbbells for strength training, as bones get stronger through remodeling, which requires loading to achieve. Gentle exercise including yoga and aquatic exercise does not achieve the same bone-strengthening benefits. We recommend your patient consult with you before starting any new exercise programs. If your patient is at an increased risk for falls or has osteoporosis, how can physical therapy help? At Excel Physical Therapy, our physical therapists spend ample one- on-one time with each patient to implement an individualized plan of care to address strength and balance impairments. Treatment may include strength and balance training, postural education to promote spine health, and recommended environmental and lifestyle modifications to reduce fall risk and protect bone health. This individualized treatment approach will reduce fall risk and improve overall bone strength. The physical therapist will help your patient achieve their goals and equip them with a home exercise program that will be customized to their specific needs.

If you have any questions about how our physical therapists can help your patients, please give your local clinic a call to schedule an evaluation or a complimentary screening today.

References: 1. www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/sites/default/files/file/ supporting_documents/falls-fractures-final-rec-statements-bulletin.pdf 2. www.choosept.com/ symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-osteoporosis

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Fall Prevention Checklist

MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER

GET YOUR VISION AND HEARING CHECKED

REVIEW YOUR MEDICATIONS WITH YOUR DOCTOR

STAY ACTIVE AND EXERCISE

3 Exercise to improve your balance and strength. 3 Ask your doctor to review your medications, particularly for those that affect brain function, blood pressure, and lower blood sugar. 3 Have your vision checked regularly. 3 Wear proper footwear, such as slip-resistant soles and a low heel. 3 Be alert and watch where you walk. Most falls occur when stepping up or down on uneven surfaces like a bathtub, or a curb. 3 Correct common home safety hazards such as loose throw rugs, poor lighting, slippery tubs/showers, clutter and obstacles, loose cords, and unstable furniture. 3 Practice getting up from a fall! Yes, knowing what to do if a fall does occur and practicing ahead of time will give you the confidence to be able to help yourself and minimize injury. Many falls are preventable. Here is a list of things patients can do to help avoid a fall.

Specialties Offered At Excel Physical Therapy

• Balance & Vestibular Rehab • Concussion Rehab Program • Functional Movement Screens (FMS) • LSVT Big Therapy • Lymphedema Treatment

• Manual Therapy – ART & Graston Techniques • McKenzie Method • Pelvic Health • Pre- & Post-Surgical Rehab • TMD (Temperalmandibular Dysfunction)

Please visit www.excelphysicaltherapy.com/ services for more information

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