Osteoporosis: what NIAMS says physical and occupational therapists do
NIAMS says that, to help prevent injury and fractures in osteoporosis, “a physical therapist or rehabilitation medicine specialist can” recommend back-strengthening exercises, teach safe ways of moving, and tailor an exercise program. It lists physical and occupational therapists on the care team. This page quotes NIAMS only.
Quoted from official pages checked November 12, 2026. Confirm current information on those sites. This page is not medical, legal, or billing advice and does not describe any patient’s care.
Sources read on November 12, 2026: NIAMS’s Osteoporosis overview and its Osteoporosis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take page (last reviewed December 2022).
What osteoporosis is
NIAMS states: “Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures (broken bones).”
Exercise and the physical therapist
NIAMS states: “Exercise is an important part of an osteoporosis treatment program. Research shows that the best physical activities for bone health include strength training or resistance training.” For older adults, it says regular exercise can help “Build muscle mass and strength and improve coordination and balance. This can help lower your chance of falling.”
It adds: “If you have osteoporosis, you should avoid high-impact exercise. To help prevent injury and fractures, a physical therapist or rehabilitation medicine specialist can:”
- “Recommend specific exercises to strengthen and support your back.”
- “Teach you safe ways of moving and carrying out daily activities.”
- “Recommend an exercise program that is tailored to your circumstances.”
And: “If you have osteoporosis or bone loss, it is important to talk to your doctor or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program.”
Who treats osteoporosis, in NIAMS’s list
NIAMS’s list includes “Occupational therapists, who teach ways to protect joints, minimize pain, perform activities of daily living, and conserve energy.” and “Physical therapists, who help to improve joint function.” It also lists endocrinologists, geriatricians, gynecologists, nurse educators, orthopaedists, physiatrists, primary care providers, and rheumatologists.
Falls
NIAMS states: “In addition, preventing falls helps prevent fractures.” CDC’s fall-risk program is on fall prevention with STEADI.
What this page does not do
It does not repeat NIAMS’s medicine list or its bone density testing section. It is not medical advice and does not recommend any treatment, medicine, or product. Scope of practice for each profession is set by state law; check your state board.