Osteoporosis:
Therapeutic Management Of Bone Health
Course Description
This course provides an in-depth look at osteoporosis and PT/OT management of bone health. The course reviews bone anatomy and physiology; looks at classifications, causes, and effects of low bone density; summarizes medical management and medications; and provides a detailed discussion of the therapist’s role in managing osteoporosis and related conditions. The material presented here is designed specifically for use with patients who have osteoporosis, osteopenia, or low bone density, or who are at risk of developing one of these, regardless of their age or comorbidities. The course presents targeted, safe exercises for improving posture, flexibility, strength, balance, and bone health with adults. This course will be immediately useful in clinical practice to PTs, OTs, PTAs, and OTAs, particularly those who work with adults age 50 or over.
Course Objective
- After completing this continuing education course, the learner will be able to:
- 1. Explain basic human bone physiology and changes in bone associated with aging
- 2. Define osteopenia and osteoporosis and their classifications
- 3. Summarize the demographics of osteoporosis in the United States
- 4. Discuss testing for osteoporosis, its parameters, and its drawbacks
- 5. Identify the physiological effects of decreased bone density
- 6. Recognize the morbidity and mortality associated with low-trauma fractures
- 7. Describe the postural changes associated with osteoporosis
- 8. Identify low-trauma fracture risk factors
- 9. Summarize the main medical and pharmacological interventions for osteoporosis
- 10. Discuss how exercise affects bone health
- 11. Identify contraindications and precautions to exercise prescription
- 12. Explain the evaluation and assessment of a patient with osteoporosis
- 13. Apply knowledge and create a plan of care for an osteoporosis patient in a case study.
- 14. Choose, explain, and instruct specific exercises for beginner-level osteoporosis patients,
- including stretching, balance, strengthening, and aerobic activities.