Effects of a home exercise program on index of kyphosis, height, balance, and quality of life in postmenopausal women with low bone mass

Date

2006-12

Authors

Keller, Victoria Clarke Cannella

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Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to focus on the use of four clinic visits and a home exercise program as an intervention to reduce thoracic kyphosis, increase height, and improve balance and quality of life in women with low bone mass and a clinically apparent kyphosis. Three postmenopausal women participated in four weekly visits for instruction and progression in a home program consisting of 9 progressive trunk-strengthening exercises. During the third visit they were instructed in body mechanics during activities of daily living that avoid spinal flexion. Prior to the intervention and after 8 weeks of exercise, measurements were taken. After 8 weeks of performing the exercise program, all patients demonstrated improvement in their index of kyphosis, balance, and increase in height. Two of the 3 had improvement in their scores on the Osteoporosis Quality of Life Questionnaire. It appears the intervention is successful and should be studied further.

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Keywords

Health and environmental sciences, Physical therapy, Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), Reduced mobility, Pain management

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