Osteoporosis Management
Individual Consultations
Individual consultations are conducted by Monique Kurki, who is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist and Pilates instructor with a particular interest in the management of osteoporosis. You will receive expert assessment, personalised advice and safe instruction to help make lifestyle changes and develop an effective home exercise program (or suitably modify your current program).
If you wish to join the Bone Health and Vitality bone health and vitality classes, an individual consultation will usually be required before joining the group, particularly if you are significantly restricted by other general health conditions, have a high fracture risk and/or have limited exercise experience.
Individual consultations by appointment are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Cost
$245 for initial assessment and management advice (75 minutes + 15 minutes letter to referring specialist)
$120 for private session (30-45 minutes)
Same fees apply for Face to Face and Telehealth consultations
Private Health Insurance extras medical benefits rebates claimable through HICAPS
Medicare-Registered for Chronic Disease Care Plans
Pensioner discount available
About Osteoporosis
- It is a ‘silent’ disease which involves a gradual loss of bone mass and deterioration in bone architecture
- Bones can become more fragile and weak, but there may not be any warning sign until a bone fracture (break) occurs
- After the first fracture there is a much greater risk of subsequent fractures within the next year
- Worldwide, 1 in 3 women over age 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, as will 1 in 5 men aged over 50. Postmenopausal women are at high risk of developing osteoporosis and suffering fractures due to the rapid bone loss which occurs with the onset of menopause
- Osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable condition, but can cause lasting pain, deformity and disability if it is not well managed
- Maintaining a healthy skeleton to reduce your risk of osteoporosis and fractures involves several essential strategies. These include weight-bearing, progressive resistance and balance exercises taught in Viva’s bone health and vitality classes
- A balanced diet that includes adequate calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other bone-healthy nutrients is also vital for good bone health.
- Visit Healthy Bones Australia and the International Osteoporosis Foundation for more information or contact your trusted GP
- Check out the online self-assessment tool knowyourbones.org.au to assess your bone health and fracture risk
Viva BodyStrength provides individual osteoporosis management and bone health and vitality classes for improved bone health, balance, muscle strength, posture and knowledge about optimal bone management
Osteoporosis for Men
Building Better Bones for Men
- Although fewer men than women are affected by osteoporosis, it is still a serious health risk for men
- The same bone-health principles apply to men as to women: in addition to getting enough calcium, Vitamin D and exercise, optimise bone density by stopping smoking and not drinking excessive alcohol or caffeinated drinks
- Staying active with weight bearing exercise like running, tennis, football, basketball or rapid /uphill walking is excellent for bones and good for balance
- Recent studies have confirmed that resistance training and jumping exercise improves bone density in men with low bone mass
Viva BodyStrength provides individual osteoporosis management and bone health and vitality classes for improved bone health, balance, muscle strength, posture and knowledge about optimal bone management