Archive for August, 2011
Osteoporosis Treatment Today
Posted by: | CommentsMany of my clients who come to me for osteoporosis treatment frequently have to deal with other medical issues such as weight gain, quality of sleep, and overall fitness.
I discussed this issue (and specifically osteoporosis treatment and prevention) with Kent MacLeod, Clinical Pharmacist and owner of NutriChem Compounding Phramacy and Clinic.
Osteoporosis Treatment – In a Silo
Kent finds that many clients are subject to a “silo effect” when they visit their physician for their bone health. Physicians are busy and can spend only so much time with you. They may not be able to provide the level of health counseling they want and you need. As a result, they isolate and treat your bone health with one drug and another health issues with a different medication.
If their DEXA test shows a low bone density measure, their are frequently prescribed a bisphosphonate. Then they are prescribed a different prescription for their heart health and another different prescription for another medical condition. After awhile they are experiencing poly-pharmacy.
Instead Kent advocates an approach that is logical and scientific, and allows the client (and health professional) to make well informed health decisions.
If you are interested in learning more about NutriChem’s Biomedical laboratory testing services and design supplements, you can contact them at their website.
My Video Interview with Kent
Health Professionals: Building Better Bones Online Course
Learn the Prevention, Treatment and Management of Osteoporosis.
MelioGuide Building Better Bone Online Course for Health Professionals
Women and Men: Exercise for Better Bones Program
Osteoporosis exercise program that strengthens bone, reduces fracture risk, improves balance and builds confidence.
MelioGuide Exercise for Better Bones Program for Women and Men
Give Nordic Walking a Try!
Posted by: | Comments
Nordic Walkers
I encourage all of my clients to do daily physical activity. Walking is one exercise I frequently prescribe to my clients.
But lately I have been introducing Nordic Walking to many of my clients. If you are not familiar with Nordic Walking, I encourage you to check it out.
Much to my surprise, Nordic Walking has become more popular with my clients than I anticipated. I think there are several reasons why so many people like it.
- It encourages full body movement. Unlike traditional walking, Nordic Walking encourages movement in both your legs and arms. In fact your arms are very active participants in the walking movement.
- When you Nordic Walk you have two more contact points with the ground (as compared to traditional walking). This leads to more stability and reduces fall risk – a big confidence builder for clients with osteoporosis.
- I have clients that require an assistive device such as a cane. Many of them naturally dislike the use of a cane but are happy to use a fitness product like the Nordic Walkers.
- Finally, Nordic Walking can be a solo or social activity. Nordic Walking groups are springing up everywhere. Try one out!
Nordic Walkers
If you feel Nordic Walking is something you would like to try but need someone to get you started on the right foot (sorry for the pun), feel free to contact me. I can provide consultation for choice of poles and how to use the poles.
Physio Ball Size Recommendations
Posted by: | CommentsI frequently am asked my opinion on choice of physio ball – specifically physio ball size. In this blog I discuss the importance of selecting a burst-resistant ball and provide guidelines on how to decide the correct ball size.
Choosing a Burst Resistant Physio Ball for Osteoporosis Exercises
It is extremely important that the ball you get specifies “burst resistant”. This will ensure your safety. A number of Physio Balls on the market are not burst resistant standard and there is the risk that the ball could burst and collapse while you are using it.
The following sizing guidelines will help you to determine the ball size you will need.
| Your Height | Recommended Ball Height |
| 5′ | 45 cm |
| 5′ to 5′ 4″ | 55 cm |
| 5′ 5″ to 5′ 11″ | 65 cm |
| 6′ plus | 75 cm |
As a rule, when sitting on a ball with your knees bent and your feet directly under your knees, your thighs should be parallel to the floor.
Conclusion
Physio Ball Balance Exercise
The Physio Ball can be a very effective part of your osteoporosis exercise program – especially for the balance exercises. You need to make sure that you follow these rules:
- Select a burst resistant Physio Ball.
- Choose the right size for you.
- You should replace the ball if there is too much wear an tear.
- Be careful to not tackle the advanced Physio Ball exercises before you build up your balance skills.
- Follow safe usage guildelines.
The MelioGuide Exercise for Better Bones program provides detailed instructions on safe usage of the Physio Ball.
Health Professionals: Building Better Bones Online Course
Learn the Prevention, Treatment and Management of Osteoporosis through safe and effective exercise programs.
MelioGuide Building Better Bone Online Course for Health Professionals
Women and Men: Exercise for Better Bones Program
An osteoporosis exercise program that strengthens bone, reduces fracture risk, improves balance and builds confidence.
MelioGuide Exercise for Better Bones Program for Women and Men
Function to Fitness Physiotherapy and Personal Training in Ottawa
