Atlantis Physical Therapy is highly regarded for its osteoporosis program that is headed by Sharon Kato, who was trained in the nationally recognized Sara Meeks Method.  There is a lot to know about osteoporosis and the benefits of physical therapy. Take this quick quiz and maybe surprise yourself.

True or False?

1) Osteoporosis is a silent disease.

2) The first sign of osteoporosis is usually a hip fracture.

3) A compression fracture is always painful.

4) The best diagnostic test for osteoporosis is an X-ray.

5) People who eat healthy, exercise regularly, and eat a calcium-rich diet are not at risk.

6) A good exercise program for osteoporosis should include abdominal crunches, sit-ups, and leg lifts.

7) Osteoporosis is occurring in children, teenagers, young adults, and men.

8) Water exercise is the best kind of exercise for people with osteoporosis.

9) A one-on-one physical therapy session is often the best treatment for the pain and symptoms that often accompany osteoporosis.

10) It is never too late to start doing something about osteoporosis if you have been diagnosed.

Answers

1) TRUE – In the early stages there are no symptoms.

2) FALSE – Loss of body height is usually the first sign of osteoporosis.

3) FALSE – Compression fractures are not always painful – – can be a “Catch in the back, mild pull.”

4) FALSE – Bone Mineral Density Test (DEXA) is better than an X-ray. By the time seen on X-ray there is already 30-50% loss.

5) FALSE – Healthy people are still at risk. Other medical problems can cause osteoporosis.

6) FALSE – Crunches, repetitious sit-ups, and forward bending movement are dangerous to those with osteoporosis.

7) TRUE – 1 in 2 women, 1 in 8 men along with teens as young and young children been diagnosed.

8) FALSE – Water (aquatic) exercise is ok for those with severe pain, but otherwise weight- bearing exercise is better.

9) TRUE – A physical therapist is trained to help alleviate pain and restore mobility that is lost when in pain caused by osteoporosis.

10) TRUE – Yes it is never too late to start taking care of your bones, but the sooner you start caring for them the better.

Read an inspiring story about Garrett’s journey with osteoporosis and how Sharon Kato made a difference in his life. Click to Read.