What is osteoporosis and who is most at risk?

Osteoporosis is characterised by reduced bone density and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, significantly increasing fracture risk — particularly at the hip, spine, and wrist. It is most common in postmenopausal women due to oestrogen decline, but also affects older men and those with certain conditions or medications impairing bone metabolism.

What type of exercise is most important in osteoporosis?

Weight-bearing exercise (walking, dancing, resistance training) stimulates bone remodelling and is strongly recommended. Resistance training is particularly important for spinal and hip bone density. Balance-based practices such as tai chi and yoga reduce fall risk, which is as important as bone density for fracture prevention. High-impact activities must be approached carefully where osteoporosis is already established.

Can complementary approaches support bone health?

Nutritional approaches addressing calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin K2, and protein intake are foundational for bone health. Nutritional therapy can assess for deficiencies that impair bone metabolism. Mind-body practices with balance components reduce fall risk. A holistic programme combining nutrition, exercise, and fall prevention is more effective than any single intervention.

What should I tell a complementary practitioner before treatment?

It is essential to inform any manual therapist or movement practitioner of your osteoporosis diagnosis. High-velocity spinal manipulation and deep pressure on affected bones are contraindicated. Qualified practitioners will adapt their approach. Movement instructors with specific osteoporosis training — particularly for Pilates and yoga — are preferable.

Musculoskeletallow Risk

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis involves reduced bone density and increased fracture risk, primarily affecting post-menopausal women and older adults. Resistance training, calcium and vitamin D optimisation, and fall prevention are essenti

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Reviewed by Dr. Ian Henderson · Microbiobial Health & Medicine26 March 2026Research-supported

Quick answer

Do any of these feel familiar?

Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without any symptoms — until a fracture happens
Many people only discover it following an unexpected break, often from a low-impact incident that would not normally cause injury: a minor fall, a cough, or bending to lift something
Vertebral fractures can cause a sudden onset of severe back pain, or may occur gradually and contribute to height loss and a stooped posture
Once diagnosed, many people describe a significant fear of falling and fracturing, which can lead to reduced activity and social withdrawal — itself contributing to further bone loss and deconditioning

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