Managing and Preventing Osteoporosis: Shraddha Oza Shares Her Perspective as a Physical Therapist
“Osteoporosis is considered a silent disease. Nearly 80 percent of older Americans who suffer bone breaks are not tested or treated for osteoporosis. Yet, 1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4 men over age 50 will break a bone due to it.” For this week’s Women’s Health Wednesday, today’s woman dreamer, Shraddha Oza, shares what everyone needs to know about osteoporosis, which is a disease of weakening of the bones. She explains the common symptoms, recommended strengthening exercises, and her experience as a frontline worker in nursing homes during Covid-19.
Tell us your story and what interested you in physical therapy & osteoporosis?
Physical therapy was not the most famous profession in India those days. My deep interest in science ( and interest in getting rid of trigonometry :-)) got me interested in physical therapy. College years in Baroda, were amazing fun and learning. Early on we got to interact with patients during our clinic hours ( 3-4 hours daily). This was the best part , I knew what I love is interacting and listening to people and finally helping them. Jumping right into my US journey, most of my career is in rehab centers and nursing homes. This is one of the best places to work. I get to work with elderly and when they stay over a month or two, we all get to make special bonds with them. It's like we have a family outside of my home . I love working with elderly and over the years ,figured out that ignored postures and falls due to osteoporosis have led many of these people towards nursing home stay. My direction truly became clear when I attended a 3 day intense seminar on Osteoporosis. I became an ambassador for National Osteoporosis Foundation and had really good success with leading local seminars and exercise classes.
What is osteoporosis and what are some common symptoms?
Osteoporosis is considered a silent disease , Many times, you don’t know about the disease till you break a bone. The disease is responsible for an estimated two million broken bones per year, yet nearly 80 percent of older Americans who suffer bone breaks are not tested or treated for osteoporosis. 1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4 men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. A very small thing like losing height with aging could be normal but losing several inches could be a symptom of low bone density, that is, osteoporosis. Do not ignore to get your height measured at your next physical.
What are the best exercises for strengthening your spine and your hips that you recommend, if you have osteoporosis? Does walking help prevent osteoporosis?
To improve bone density, weight bearing exercises are important. HIgher impact weight bearing should be cautioned. It is very important to avoid bending at the spine. Yoga and pilates poses that increase spinal flexion should also be avoided. Walking is a good exercise too. Weight training exercises are great with light weights.
What are your thoughts about healthcare in Covid times?
My story would be incomplete without sharing my Covid warrior story. As front line healthcare workers in a nursing home , we were hard hit with Covid-- so many of our patients passed away. It was difficult to go to work for all of us due to loss and fear but it is amazing how god gives you strength to go back and fight your fears.
What is your future dream / vision in your life?
Drug research in the US is a highly funded industry; in contrast, effects of exercise and rehab are not fully measurable and that leads to decrease in prevention methods for many diseases. I would love to improve awareness about prevention and insurance coverage for prevention methods in the US. There is a special feeling for me to work with people and help and make a difference in someone’s life , the feeling of satisfaction and love that you get in return is priceless. Rehab is all about quality of life ,all your hobbies and mobility are a very important part of your life. To be able to live with quality and to make a difference in quality of life is what I love to do.