How can physical therapy help osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis reduces bone density and increases fracture risk, but avoiding movement altogether can lead to more weakness and instability. Physical therapy teaches you how to exercise and perform daily tasks with appropriate spinal protection.
A progressive program can improve leg and postural strength, balance and body mechanics while reducing modifiable fall risks. Treatment is coordinated with your medical provider's recommendations and any precautions identified from your health history.
How can physical therapy help scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional curvature of the spine. Symptoms and treatment needs vary depending on the curve, age, flexibility and whether pain, breathing, fatigue or activity limitations are present.
Therapy focuses on posture awareness, mobility where appropriate, trunk endurance, breathing mechanics and movement strategies tailored to your individual curve and goals.
What happens during the evaluation?
Your therapist reviews your diagnosis, imaging history, medications, fracture history, pain and activity goals. The physical assessment may examine posture, spinal and hip mobility, strength, balance, walking and the movements you use at home, work or during exercise.
When needed, the therapist works within precautions provided by your physician and helps you recognize movements that may place unnecessary stress on vulnerable areas.
What might treatment include?
Your individualized plan may include:
- Weight-bearing and resistance exercise
- Postural and spinal extensor strengthening
- Core and hip strengthening
- Balance and fall-prevention training
- Breathing and rib-cage mobility exercises
- Body mechanics for lifting and daily activities
- Curve-specific movement strategies when appropriate
- A safe, progressive home exercise program
Physical therapy does not replace medical management of bone density or specialist monitoring of scoliosis. It complements that care by helping you build strength, move efficiently and stay active with confidence.
Call or text Preserve Physical Therapy to schedule an osteoporosis or scoliosis evaluation, or request an appointment online.
