Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists

Exercise Prescription to Support the Management of Osteoporosis

This exercise statement (released 2024) for Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists is based on latest research in the field and was developed by an expert Working Group, Advisory Committee and following a National Roundtable.

Exercise is essential in the management of osteoporosis but remains underutilised. The optimal care of people with low bone mass, osteoporosis and/or increased risk of falling can and should include targeted exercise to help prevent osteoporotic fracture.

Due to the increased skeletal fragility of osteoporosis, it is recommended this exercise prescription be supervised by a clinical exercise physiologist or physiotherapist. Such expertise is required to assess exercise capacity, comorbidities and to appropriately individualise the exercise prescription.

Specificity and overload are required to improve bone mass and strength, and high challenge balance training is required to prevent falls. The statement includes:

  • summary of the principles of osteogenic loading and fall prevention
  • translation of those principles into clinical practice
  • evidence-based recommendations for exercise prescription
  • special considerations
  • links to several relevant resources for people with or at risk of osteoporosis and falls

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