The Month of May is

National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month

Osteoporosis means "porous bone." If you look under at a healthy bone under a microscope, you will see that parts of it look like a honeycomb. If you have osteoporosis, the holes and spaces in the honeycomb are much larger than they are in a healthy bone. This means your bones have lost density or mass. It also means that the structure of your bone tissues has become abnormal. As your bones become less dense, they become weaker.

Most people with osteoporosis need to take an osteoporosis medicine to prevent broken bones. If you have osteoporosis or have broken a bone, your health care provider may also refer you to a physical therapist.

A physical therapist will work with you to develop an exercise plan that involves weight-bearing exercises and strengthening exercises. Depending on your needs, the physical therapist may also work on your balance and posture. Improved balance will help you prevent falls. Posture is important throughout your life, but it's especially important if you have or could have osteoporosis. Poor posture can mean that your upper back is more rounded than it should be. A rounded back puts more pressure on your spine, increasing your risk of spinal fractures. A rounded back puts more pressure on your spine, increasing your risk of spinal fractures. Your physical therapist may also teach you new ways to safely handle your "daily activities."