At Osteo-Circuit, we design exercise programs tailored to each individual’s unique needs, with a clear goal in mind: to build bone strength safely and effectively. These programs are grounded in the latest research and best available evidence. While we do have solid evidence on strategies that may help build bone or slow its loss, it’s important to remember that not every approach suits every person.
The American Physical Therapy Association recently published excellent Clinical Practice Guidelines to help physiotherapists design appropriate exercise programs for people with osteoporosis. You’ll find a summary of their recommendations below.
However, it’s crucial to understand that these are general guidelines—not one-size-fits-all prescriptions. If you also live with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, a joint replacement, chronic shoulder issues, a previous spinal fracture, or severe osteoporosis, some exercises might not be safe for you. That’s why a full physiotherapy assessment is essential. A physiotherapist can tailor your program to your specific needs—ensuring it’s both safe and effective
Postmenopausal women to slow decline of BMD of hip and femoral neck:
- PTs should design and advise participation in long duration exercise programs consisting of static weight bearing exercises such as Single Leg Stance (SLS) to slow decline of BMD at hip
- PTs should design and advise long duration adequately dosed progressive resistance strength training exercises such as weight training either alone on combined with impact exercise training such as jogging, walking or aerobics to slow decline of BMD at the femoral neck
Postmenopausal women to slow decline of BMD of lumbar spine
- PTs should consider designing and advising participation in long duration exercise programs consisting of walking, tai chi, progressive-resistance strength training (such as weight training) and different combinations of exercise types to slow decline of lumbar spine BMD.
Premenopausal women to slow decline of BMD of femoral neck
- PTs should consider designing and advising participation in long duration exercise programs consisting of high impact exercise (such as jogging) and combining impact exercise (such as stair climbing) to slow decline of fem neck BMD
Please contact us with any questions you may have!
Building Better Bones
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Physical Therapist Management of Patients With Suspected or Confirmed Osteoporosis: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy
- Hartley et al., 2022, J Geriatr Phys Ther