Implementation of Small Group Physiotherapy for People at Risk of Falls with Compromised Bone Mineral Density

Interventional Implementation Study.

Outpatient private practice physiotherapy clinic.

Adults with osteoporosis or at risk of developing osteoporosis.

Using the knowledge-to-action framework to implement a group physiotherapy program, participants were enrolled in a 6 week, twice weekly, 60-minute exercise intervention that targeted whole body strength and balance. Participants provided written feedback on the program.

The mean age of the participants was 72 (SD: 6.03, min 60 years, max 84 years). There were 2 males, and 41 females that participated in the study. The program was successfully integrated into an outpatient physiotherapy clinic. All participants enjoyed the exercises, the social aspect, and having a booklet to support their exercise. Participants suggested that the program could be improved by having a class capacity of 9 participants per class due to space, having pictures in the booklet. Preliminary physical outcome measures showed promise, the 30-second sit-to-stand improved by a mean of 3.1 repetitions (p<0.001).

There was positive patient and clinician feedback on the implementation of the program within the clinic. Future iterations of the program will need to consider sustainability and accessibility of the program within the osteoporosis population.