Healthy Bone Program
A 12 week program supervised by an accredited KinesiologistDisease Severity
There is often confusion regarding the difference between these three terms. See below the official definitions of each.
1
“Osteoporosis is a bone disease. It is a bone disorder characterized by decreased bone strength as a result of reduced bone quantity and quality. A person with osteoporosis has an increased risk of breaking a bone (fracturing) easily.”
2
“Osteopenia is commonly seen in people over age 50 that have lower than average bone density but do not have osteoporosis.”
3
“Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease that involves thinning or destruction of the smooth cartilage that covers the ends of bones, as well as changes to the bone underlying the joint cartilage.”
Risk factors for osteoporosis
Some lifestyle risk factors for osteoporosis can be avoided.
However, uncontrollable risk factors may include family history/genetics, being female (although osteoporosis is NOT just a woman’s disease), older age, menstrual history, history of a hysterectomy.
Lifestyle-related risk factors may include diet (i.e. lacking calcium or vitamin D), excessive and chronic consumption of alcohol or caffeine, smoking, and physical inactivity.
Why is exercise important for Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
Certain types of exercise strengthen muscles and bones, while other types are designed to improve your balance — which can help prevent falls.
Small spinal fractures can cause a stooped posture often seen in people with osteoporosis. Therefore, aim to exercise for best posture, balance and fall prevention. These are essential to ensure quality of life and health.
Exercising if you have osteoporosis means finding the safest, most enjoyable activities for you given your overall health and amount of bone loss.
It's never too late to start exercising. For older adults, regular physical activity can:
- Increase your muscle strength
- Improve your balance
- Decrease your risk of bone fracture
- Maintain or improve your posture
- Relieve or decrease pain
Topics covered over the 12 week Bone Health program
- Why is bone health so important?
- What can you do for your bone health? Lifestyle factors and tests (DEXA etc.)
- Healthy diet to aid bone health
- Posture and core strength - fall prevention
- Balance and stability
- Functional strength for activities of daily living
- Importance of maintaining an exercise routine (possible barriers)
- Aerobic activity, finding time in your day (group exercising)
- Stretching and range of motion
Book an appointment
Our team is here to guide you to the best decision, for you. Contact us for more information.