ArticleThe Role of the Physical Therapist in the Recognition, Assessment, and Exercise Intervention in Persons With, or at Risk for, OsteoporosisMeeks, Sara M. PT, MS, GCS Author Information Sara Meeks Physical Therapy, Gainesville, Fla. Corresponding author: Sara M. Meeks, PT, MS, GCS, Sara Meeks Physical Therapy, 501-F NW, 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 (e-mail: [email protected]). Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation 21(1):p 42-56, January 2005. Buy Abstract The incidence and cost of osteoporosis is increasing. In the physical therapy setting, over half of persons aged 50 and above are at risk for these often silent and undiagnosed conditions. With direct access in patient care, it is becoming more important for physical therapists to recognize these conditions before assessment and intervention. Discussed are assessment procedures and a decision tree, which is based on the information obtained from bone density testing (DEXA). Physical therapy interventions with a focus on the forces on the skeleton are presented. With this information, therapeutic and safe exercise and movement programs can be designed. With a focus on alignment and strengthening of the back and hips and suggestions for progression of the program, the bottom line is prevention of fracture. © 2005 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
