Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease affecting the bones in which bone density decreases. It mostly affects older people, especially women after menopause. Due to their lower estrogen levels, bone tissue is broken down and the bones are less able to regenerate.
Osteoporosis causes more unstable bones, which is why the risk of injury is significantly higher in those affected. For many patients, this also increases their fear of falling, which often results in uncertainty in everyday life. Possible degenerative changes in the spine worsen the body’s posture and can lead to cramps and severe pain. Avoiding exercise, however, is the wrong approach, because the bones need the pressure created by regular exercise to prevent them from degenerating even further.
The German association of scientific osteological societies also recommends regular exercise for people with osteoporosis. In their guidelines, they make it clear that improved muscle strength and coordination, as well as improved balance, can help prevent osteoporosis or improve symptoms associated with a pre-existing disease.
For 12 weeks, the Dove Press journal Clinical Interventions in Aging conducted a study of osteoporosis patients between the ages of 56 and 83. The subjects performed balance strengthening and jumping exercises on a trampoline. The results demonstrate that trampoline training increases mobility, thereby reducing the fear of falling.
Tripping hazards won’t ruin your daily life if you’re less afraid of falling.