1. Counteract the Changes in Your Body
If you have suffered a fracture or are simply losing your strength and mobility to osteoporosis, rehabilitation may be prescribed by your doctor. The main focus of rehabilitative activity will be on your physical strength and recovery of your maximum potential.
You may receive orders for outpatient treatment in physical therapy one or more times per week. If you have a choice of therapy centers, choose one that assigns you the same therapist for all your visits. Continuity of care enhances its quality, and seeing the same caregiver, whom you come to trust, is reassuring and motivating.
Your therapist will create a customized exercise and strength-training program for you, within your limits. A more severe case may require a stay at a rehabilitation hospital, which may include physical and drug therapy, surgery and postoperative care.
2. Make Changes in Your Lifestyle
You may also be assigned to a fitness or wellness therapist to assist you in lifestyle modification. Many people with osteoporosis fracture or break a bone due to a fall at home. Osteoporosis can cause balance issues, and tripping over a simple wayward extension cord or rug can have serious consequences. If you have broken a bone or are at risk for doing so, such as if you are subject to vertigo, then lifestyle modification can keep further accidents from happening. You'll get balance training, safety awareness, posture exercises and other techniques for preventing falls.
3. Deal With the Changes in Your Life
Progressive osteoporosis and broken bones carry more than just physical implications. Anyone can get the disease, although postmenopausal women are at the highest risk for it. Meeting others who are similarly affected is a comforting and bonding experience. You can trade information, tips and understanding. You can hold each other to your fitness goals. Your doctor may be able to suggest a support group, or you can locate one online via the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
