Welcome to the Osteoporosis Program at the Grey Nuns Department of Rehab Medicine. We offer a combination of services including in person and virtual sessions to provide you with tools you need to manage Osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal (bone) disorder characterized by low bone mass. The bones become more porous and fragile putting them at greater risk of fracture. One in three women and one in five men in Canada will suffer a fracture due to Osteoporosis in their lifetime. Osteoporosis can be managed with medical and pharmacological treatment, appropriate exercise, proper nutrition and lifestyle changes.

The goals of this program are to gain a better understanding of osteoporosis, improve posture and strength, prevent falls and minimize the risk of sustaining a fracture. You will receive practical information, exercise advice and tips on how to perform daily activities safely.

Program Structure:

You do not require a doctor’s referral to attend the program however you do need a medical diagnosis of osteoporosis from your doctor. A recent bone mineral density scan is helpful, preferably done within the last 12 months.

The Osteoporosis Program at the Grey Nuns Hospital offers both in person and virtual services.

In person services:

To register for the program contact the Department of Rehab Medicine at the Grey Nuns Hospital at 780-735-7161 and request an Osteoporosis Assessment. You will be scheduled to attend in person for an assessment and 2 follow up visits with a Physical Therapist.
These visits cover:

• Posture assessment and exercises to correct
• Upper and lower body strengthening
• Core strengthening
• Balance training and fall prevention
• How to take care of your back during everyday tasks
• Safe activities and which movements to avoid

Virtual services:

Following the in person sessions you will be given the option to participate in a weekly virtual exercise class. This class runs on an 8 week cycle and is led by a Therapy Assistant.

In order to participate in this virtual class you will require:

• Technology that supports he Zoom platform (audio and video required)
• An email account
• To review Zoom Support if needed

These classes provide a gradual progression of posture, strengthening and balance exercises appropriate for people with Osteoporosis.

You must attend the in person visits before joining the virtual class. Alternatively, if you have attended the full 7 week virtual Osteoporosis program run out of the Misericordia Hospital you may join these weekly virtual classes without attending the in person component at the Grey Nuns. If this applies to you please contact our department at 780-735-7161 to register for the virtual class.