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What we’ll cover
  1. What is the difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia? 
  2. How do I know if I have osteoporosis? 
  3. How do I know if I’m at risk of developing osteoporosis? 
  4. What are some of the treatments for osteoporosis in older adults? 

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are medical conditions that are characterised by a reduction in bone density over time, which results in an increased risk of fractures. Decreases to bone density and bone health most commonly occur silently over time, often with no associated symptoms until fractures occur.  

This makes it especially important to not only identify your potential risk factors of these conditions but also to ensure that you take the necessary precautions to reduce the likelihood of developing osteoporosis.  

Our bones are constantly changing with cells that are designed to make new bone (osteoblasts) and cells that are resorbing bone (osteoclasts). Osteoporosis occurs when osteoclasts resorb bone at a higher rate than our osteoblasts create new bone, resulting in decreased bone density.  

To ensure the stimulation of osteoblasts and to maintain adequate bone density, resistance exercise and weight bearing activities have been found to be the most effective prevention methods.  

Physiotherapists are experts at developing a program specifically targeted at improving and maintaining your bone density. Our team at ME Physio work in conjunction with you and the members of your medical team, such as your GP, to safely address lifestyle factors, exercise and in some cases, medication.  

What is the difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia? 

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are both conditions that describe a decrease in bone density and bone health. The two terms are used to describe the severity and amount of bone density loss. Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis and refers to a decrease in bone density, but not to a significant enough degree to be classified as osteoporosis. 

Both conditions are asymptomatic, often developing silently until symptoms such as fracture occurs.  

How do I know if I have osteoporosis? 

The only way to identify osteoporosis or osteopenia is through a bone density scan known as a ‘DEXA’. This is a non-invasive scan that looks at the bone density around your lower back, pelvis and hip. 

It is highly advised to investigate your bone density if you start to develop symptoms such as fractures, decrease in height, or an increase in stooped posture. However, it is recommended to investigate your bone density earlier if you are at a high risk of developing osteoporosis. 

How do I know if I’m at risk of developing osteoporosis? 

Common risk factors associated with the development of osteoporosis include: 

  • Menopause – especially early onset of menopause symptoms. 
  • Genetics – if you have a known family history of reduced bone density. 
  • Long term steroid use – common medications that have steroids include asthmatic medication. 
  • Age – a decrease in bone density and bone mass is commonly observed over the lifespan.  
  • Medical conditions affecting your ability to absorb certain food groups – this includes conditions such as Celiac Disease.  
  • Excessive alcohol consumption. 
  • Excessive smoking. 

What are some of the treatments for osteoporosis in older adults? 

The best treatment for osteoporosis in older adults is a combination of exercise, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medication. 

An individualised exercise program including strength and weight bearing exercises is the most effective way to manage osteoporosis. There are a number of exercise programs specifically designed for osteoporosis, such as the Onero program.  However, recent research has revealed that it is most effective to develop a customised program specific for you since weight bearing exercise is relative to your previous exercise history. 

If necessary, your GP will speak to you about medication designed at slowing down the rate of bony resorption. This can include the use of medication such as Prolia, which is an annual injection designed to slow down Osteoclastic activity.  

If you are worried about your bone health or have recently been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, our team at ME Physio are experts at delivering exercise programs specifically targeted at your bone health. To learn more about the best exercises for bone density click here. 

To book an appointment with our physiotherapy team to get started, call our friendly team or book online today. 


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“Between DeQuervain’s syndrome in both wrists, chronic shoulder pain and a torn tendon in my hip, there was a time I didn’t know if I’d be able to hike, travel, cook, boogie board, work or even go on gentle walks without pain again. But thanks to Jason and the amazing team at ME physio, I have come through the other side.

The team worked with me through Covid and beyond, and now, I can do everything I love mostly pain free. 

Jason also helped me understand the bio-psycho-social approach to pain management, which was a huge support, especially during the stress of Covid.

I couldn’t be more grateful for their dedication to my recovery!”

- Cyndi

We are here to keep you happier, healthier and stronger 
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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy This week, our physio team took part in our annual CPR training, led by the amzing Helen McGrath! Keeping our skills sharp and always ready to act in any situation. 

Safety first.  keeping us all healthier, stronger and happy. 

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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy “A massive thank you to the whole team at ME Physio for getting us fit enough to take on the challenge of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. Tony made it all the way to the summit- 5,895m I reached the Barafu camp at 4,700m! 
All those strength and Pilates classes have really paid off” 
–Joan 💪🏽🗻

At ME Physio, it’s all about getting stronger, happier and staying healthy so you can do the things you love! 

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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Last week, we had the pleasure of chatting with the lovely residents at Hyson Apartments, right next to our new Caulfield South location! Our expert physio, Jason, shared some great tips on building strength and balance to help everyone stay active, independent and safe from falls. 

With the right exercises, you can feel healthier, happier, and stronger every day! From standing up with ease to walking confidently, these small steps lead to a life-changing impact. 
 
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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy From the clinic to the kitchen! 🍝 Our team at ME Physio traded their work attire for aprons this long weekend, cooking up some pasta magic for a work function. Team bonding with alot of delicious fun! 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳 

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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Your bone mineral density is an important area to address as you age. 

In these videos Lizzie and Matt run us through some basic exercises that you can do at home to start building up the strength in your bones and muscles. 

There are multiple variations for each exercise so that you can choose the exercise that best fits your current strength / fitness level.

Here we have our variations of a push up 
1) push ups against the wall
2) push ups on knees 
3) push ups elevated on a surface (can use a bench or table)
4) push ups in plank position

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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Under the care of Lella and our team, Peta has worked extremely hard to get back to playing soccer after an ankle injury. 
Through a thorough and guided rehabilitation program, getting stronger is getting back on the pitch and finishing off the season with a few goals 
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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Under the care of Matthew and our team, Cailin has worked tirelessly to reduce her back pain and restore her strength.
Through a thorough and guided rehabilitation program, getting stronger is getting back on the ice and competiting at Nationals. 
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#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy At ME Physio, we’re focused on helping you get stronger and recover so you can keep doing the things you love. 

For Rachel, healthier and stronger is getting back on the slopes in New Zealand following ACL reconstructive surgery 
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#lovetoseeit #MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Exciting news from our NEW site in Caulfield South! 🧡🩶

Our physiotherapists, Lizzie and Matthew, recently performed strength and balance assessments for the friendly and caring residents at Calvary Hyson Apartments. 

These assessments help us understand your balance, strength, and current fitness levels, allowing our physiotherapists to create a tailored plan to keep you healthier, happier, and stronger.

#MEphysio #theperfectplaceforME #happinessisahealthierandstrongerME #physio #physiotherapy #malverneast #malverneastphysiotherapy Back to school 🔙📚

Last week we were fortunate enough to head back to uni and refresh our anatomy knowledge at @latrobeuni in the anatomy labs. 

Thank you to the Latrobe School of Physiotherapy for inviting us!

You Deserve to Feel Good.

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