Ageing is universal. However, women can experience the physical effects of ageing, particularly bone density and muscle mass loss and the development of arthritis, more acutely than men.
The oestrogen hormone plays a major role in maintaining bone density by inhibiting bone resorption (the process of breaking down or absorbing tissue or cells into the bloodstream). As women age and go through menopause, their estrogen levels drop disrupting this natural process that would otherwise help bones grow, heal, and adapt.
Oestrogen also helps to regulate muscle metabolism by promoting muscle protein synthesis (the process by which new muscle proteins are formed from amino acids crucial to muscle growth, repair, and maintenance). When oestrogen levels drop, this process slows down, leading to a gradual loss of muscle mass. The reduction in oestrogen also impacts other hormones like growth hormone that influence muscular health, which can further contribute to muscle weakening.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
When you engage in weight-bearing activities (such as walking, running, or strength training), your muscles exert force on your bones. This force stimulates bone-forming cells called osteoblasts to produce new bone tissue. The more weight and force that bones are subjected to during exercise, the more these cells work to reinforce and strengthen bone structure, which helps maintain bone density.
Physiotherapists can provide personalised exercise programs to help maintain muscle mass and stimulate muscle growth. This is especially important for major muscle groups to help maintain mobility and strength and prevent fractures.
As we age, balance and coordination naturally decline, leading to an increased risk of falls. Physiotherapists can also work on balance exercises to strengthen the muscles around key areas like the legs and core to improve coordination and help prevent falls.
Physiotherapists are well-equipped to help older women get started or get back to being physically fit. They provide an extra layer of comfort and trust for those who may prefer closer supervision. No matter where you’re at on your fitness journey, physiotherapists are well-trained in ensuring exercises are well suited to your ability level.
Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, is also a common concern for older women. Physiotherapists can tailor your wellbeing plan to include manual therapy and may recommend other modalities to help manage pain and improve joint and overall function.
Right at Home Allied Health physiotherapists have a wealth of knowledge to help women as they age. We guide some of the most vulnerable members in our communities through safe and effective exercise programs to help maintain holistic health and wellbeing.
Right at Home Allied Health is dedicated to delivering quality, patient-centred care across Australia. Our allied health services comprise chiropractic, exercise physiology, occupational therapy, optometry, osteopathy, physiotherapy, podiatry, psychology, and speech pathology. We also provide remedial massage therapy, clinical nutrition, clinical naturopathy, and Pilates. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve by decoding health, happiness, and harmony. Discover, heal, and optimise your physical and emotional wellbeing with Right at Home Allied Health. Book a Discovery Session at your local clinic today.
*Some services may not be available in all locations. Please contact your local office to learn more about their in-clinic and at-home allied health and wellbeing services.
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