Rehabilitative approach in patients with vertebral fragility fracture

Aging Clin Exp Res. 2013 Oct:25 Suppl 1:S109-11. doi: 10.1007/s40520-013-0113-y. Epub 2013 Sep 18.

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a skeleton disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone tissue, resulting in an increased risk of fragility fracture. Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are recognized as a significant health problem particularly in older people with an impact on the quality of life, mobility and mortality. A well-timed diagnosis and treatment is necessary in preventing further vertebral fracture and their consequences. Exercise alone or as part of physical therapy management is often recommended as a non-pharmacological intervention. The exercise protocols, designed specifically for individuals with vertebral fracture, should include postural correction, trunk and lower extremity muscle strengthening, balance exercises and falls prevention program. The aim of this short communication is to examine the rationale of a rehabilitation protocol after a vertebral fracture.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control
  • Aged
  • Bone Density
  • Bone and Bones / pathology
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Environment
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteoporosis / physiopathology*
  • Osteoporotic Fractures / rehabilitation
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Quality of Life
  • Risk
  • Spinal Fractures / rehabilitation*