What is it?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density decreases, making bones fragile and prone to fracture. It often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs. Physiotherapy focuses on safe exercise to strengthen bones and muscles and reduce fall risk.
Common causes
- Oestrogen deficiency after menopause (most common cause in women)
- Calcium and Vitamin D deficiency
- Prolonged corticosteroid use
- Low body weight and sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of osteoporosis
Signs and symptoms
- Usually silent until a fracture occurs
- Height loss over time (vertebral compression fractures)
- Increased thoracic kyphosis (hunched posture)
- Back pain from vertebral fractures
- Fractures from minimal trauma (wrist, hip, spine)
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Weight-bearing and resistance exercise to stimulate bone formation
- Balance training to reduce fall risk
- Postural exercises to reduce thoracic kyphosis
- Education on safe movement, safe lifting, and fall prevention
- Coordination with physician for calcium, Vitamin D, and medication management
What you can do at home
- Walk for at least 30 minutes daily — weight-bearing exercise is the best bone-builder
- Add calcium-rich foods: dairy, ragi, sesame seeds, leafy greens
- Ensure adequate sunlight exposure for Vitamin D
- Remove trip hazards from the home: loose carpets, poor lighting, cluttered floors
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia. Do not exercise without guidance — some exercises are contraindicated. We will design a safe, effective programme tailored to your bone density report.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Geriatric Physiotherapy in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.