Osteoporosis affects 5 million Italians, with women in menopause being the most affected, according to a recent ministerial study. In Friuli Venezia Giulia alone, it is estimated that 100 thousand people are in the clinical condition of bone weakening, leading to premature aging due to the loss of the mineral component.
In light of these alarming statistics, the Order of Physiotherapists of Friuli Venezia Giulia is emphasizing the importance of physiotherapy in the treatment of osteoporosis. The president of Ofi Fvg, Melania Salina, highlights how physiotherapy can play a crucial role in both the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Physiotherapy not only focuses on rehabilitation but also on preventing and treating the condition. By providing information and encouraging a healthy lifestyle, physiotherapists are able to help patients plan exercises that can be done independently at home, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.
Salina notes, “We have in our hands a powerful weapon in synergy with medical therapy. Aerobic work can be accompanied by strengthening the muscles through appropriate loads. The definition of the exercises and the initial supervision of the physiotherapist will serve to avoid errors that could cause effects opposite to those desired.”
The Order of Physiotherapists is advocating for an expanded approach to osteoporosis treatment, emphasizing the benefits of regular physical exercise, which has been scientifically proven to aid in bone remineralization. It’s not just about recommending walking but also about developing a program of balance and strengthening exercises.
With the prevalence of osteoporosis on the rise, the role of physiotherapy in both the prevention and treatment of the condition is increasingly crucial. By providing concrete help in planning exercises and promoting a healthy lifestyle, physiotherapists are offering valuable support in improving the living conditions of those suffering from osteoporosis.