Bone Health

Bone health is vital across the lifespan, especially since peak bone mass occurs by age 30. It has been said that osteoporosis is a “pediatric disease with geriatric consequences.” In the United States alone, 54 million adults over the age of 50 have either low bone mass or actual osteoporosis. Half of all women and two of five men will develop osteoporosis or fragile bones during their lifetime. 

Fragile bones can lead to fractures, and fractures can lead to disability. Fractures from osteoporosis account for more hospitalizations than cardiovascular disease, stroke, and breast cancer combined.

Physical therapists are in the unique position to address all aspects of building "better bones for life,” including diet and exercise, lifestyle modifications, as well as fall and fracture prevention.  

At Alpine Physical Therapy, we guide you on how to build and maintain healthy bones, build strength and flexibility, improve balance and posture, and move safely for everyday activities and recreation. Our aim is to help you live your best life with the strongest bones possible.

We’re boning up on Bone Health at Alpine to help those at risk for low bone mass or osteoporosis. This includes children, men and women of all ages, athletes, and those with medical conditions that contribute to osteoporosis and fractures. It is never to early or too late to start investing in your bone bank. Think of it as your “Bone 401K!”

View this informative video on Alpine's approach to helping people with osteoporosis or low bone density.  Click on the video player below to view. 

“Osteoporosis has been called a pediatric disease with geriatric consequences. Bone-healthy nutrition and regular, vigorous exercise during childhood and adolescence are the key ways in which to maximize a child’s genetic potential for strong bones—and a first step to osteoporosis prevention in later life."
- IOF President, Prof. Cyrus Cooper
Clinic Model
Participants of the Bone Health clinic undergo a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plan. Bones need to be “loaded” to gain strength and remain strong throughout life. We rely on today’s best evidence to guide you in safe exercises that effectively build healthy bones, foster recovery from fractures, and improve your balance to reduce your fall risk. 
What to Expect
On your first visit, your medical history is reviewed including medications, nutrition and supplements, height loss, previous falls or fractures, and any conditions that put you at greater risk for osteoporosis. We explain your bone density (DEXA) results and assess your posture, balance, strength, and flexibility. 

Along with an assessment of your back alignment, we also calculate your fracture risk using the Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) Tool, which tallies your fracture probability over a 10-year span.

Your treatment may include manual therapy, balance and strength training, posture training to reduce fracture risk, as well as education on weight bearing exercise. We may utilize Pilates and Core Align to help you get gain foundational strength and functional movement. We will discuss options for community and fitness programs that will best suit your situation. We can help you choose the right type of exercise to meet your goals, keep you safe, and maximize your strength so you have the tools to build healthy bones for life!
Additional Resources
Get Started
1.  Call our downtown clinic at 406-549-0064 to schedule your first appointment. 
2. Please bring your DEXA results if available.
3.  Arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment.