Build Bone Density to Protect

The right kind of exercise offers multiple benefits for people with osteoporosis or low bone density. The wrong kind can increase the risk of fractures. Maribeth Gibbon, PT, a physical therapist and clinical specialist at Cleveland Clinic, explains why the choice of exercises is so important. A well designed exercise program will include enough load to promote better bone density but not enough to overload the bone, even among people whose bones are already weak. The two categories of exercises that benefit osteoporosis patients are 1) those that involve weight-bearing and 2) those that require resistance training for strengthening.