Low bone density, osteopenia and osteoporosis can increase the risk of fractures, particularly when combined with reduced muscle strength, poor balance or falls.
The good news is that appropriately prescribed exercise can play an important role in maintaining bone health, improving strength and balance, and supporting safer movement.
Bones respond to the forces placed on them through movement and exercise. Progressive resistance and weight-bearing exercise can support bone strength, while strength and balance training can improve physical function, stability and reduce falls risk.
If you have osteoporosis, low bone density or a history of fracture, exercise can be beneficial, but some movements may need to be modified. Your Exercise Physiologist can tailor your program to help you exercise safely, build strength and support bone health.
We will consider your bone health and fracture history, current strength and fitness, balance and falls risk, mobility and physical function, pain and movement limitations, exercise experience and individual goals, and then develop a progressive program designed to challenge you appropriately while keeping safety at the centre of your exercise.
Building and maintaining muscle strength can help support bone health, physical function and independence.
Exercises can be adapted to your current strength, experience and physical abilities, with resistance gradually increased as your capacity improves.
Depending on your needs, this may include walking, stair climbing, sit-to-stand exercises and other supported weight-bearing activities.
Exercise type and intensity are tailored to your bone health, fracture risk, balance and physical capacity.
Balance and strength training can improve stability, coordination and confidence, helping you move more safely in everyday life.
Exercises may include balance activities, stepping, walking, lower-limb strengthening and functional movements.
We focus on posture, movement control and everyday functional skills, including getting up from a chair, lifting, reaching, walking, using stairs and moving around the home.
For those with osteoporosis, particularly spinal fractures, exercises can be modified to support safe and confident movement.
Improving strength, balance, coordination and movement control can help reduce falls risk and support safer everyday mobility.
Develop greater stability and control to help you move more safely and confidently.
Build the physical strength and confidence needed for everyday activities.
Maintain the physical abilities needed to move around safely, manage daily activities and remain independent for longer.
In the spirit of reconciliation, FNQ Health & Fitness acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future and we extend our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples.
