Osteoporosis is a disease where an abnormally low bone mass is present causing bones to become porous and weak. When the bones lose enough mass , they become so fragile that little or no trauma can cause a fracture. Posture deformities arise, mobility is lost, independence is lost and even death can result.

Exercise is one aspect of the management of osteoporosis life that includes lifestyle, nutrition and medication. Exercise plays two different roles in the treatment of osteoporosis. One role is through weightbearing activity, such as walking, which has been shown to increase or maintain bone mass. The other role is through specific exercises that will improve posture, balance, co-ordination and muscle strength in order to increase function and decrease falls. Individual assessments determine the exercises and activities that will restore normal movement patterns. Education sessions reinforce the activities that are indicated as well as the activities that are contraindicated when osteoporosis is present. The inclusion of outcomes measures will help to determine whether the needs of our clients are being met and will assist in ongoing evaluation and improvements of the program.

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