Physiotherapy Assessment and Management of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures

CA$20.00

This course includes

1:04:28 of material (View)

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Certificate of completion

The instructors

Canadian Physiotherapy Association (View bio)

Seniors' Health Division (View bio)

This course was recorded in March 2026

Overview

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are the most common type of osteoporotic fracture in older adults and are associated with significant pain, functional decline, increased risk of future fractures, frailty, and reduced quality of life. Multiple studies demonstrate that exercise improves physical performance, pain, and quality of life in this population. A detailed physiotherapy assessment that includes physical performance measures can provide objective data to tailor exercise programs safely and effectively and monitor change over time. However, limited OVF-specific guidance exists on which PPMs to select and how to sequence them within clinical assessment.

An emerging recommendation is the use of a Clinical Care Pathway to structure assessment and management. The pathway is important for this population because presentations vary widely, fracture risk is high, and inappropriate exercise intensity or movement patterns can increase harm. A standardized yet flexible pathway supports clinical reasoning, promotes consistency in assessment, guides individualized exercise prescription, and incorporates regular reassessment and patient feedback. Providing measurable progress and clear goals may also enhance exercise adherence—an essential factor in improving strength, balance, mobility, and overall quality of life in older adults with osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

Learning objectives

Describe the impact of osteoporotic vertebral fractures on physical function, frailty risk, and quality of life in older adults
Identify and select appropriate physical performance measures to assess fall risk, functional status, and tailor individualized exercise prescription
Explain the purpose and clinical value of utilizing a structured Clinical Care Pathway to support safe assessment, targeted intervention, reassessment, and patient feedback in the physiotherapy management of older adults with osteoporotic vertebral fractures

Instructor Biography

Bonny O'Hare, Registered Physiotherapist and Director

Bonny is a physiotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience focusing exclusively on the assessment and treatment of individuals with osteoporosis. She completed her MSc in Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University and her BSc in Physical Therapy at McGill University.

She is the Owner and Director of Pro Motion Physiotherapy, a private practice in Thornhill, Ontario. Her extensive clinical work led her to develop Osteo-Circuit™, an evidence-informed physiotherapy exercise and education program designed specifically for people living with osteoporosis. Bonny teaches this method both nationally and internationally to health professionals seeking advanced training in bone health and safe exercise prescription.

Bonny is actively involved in academic and professional education. She is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Toronto and an Instructor in the MSc Physical Therapy Osteoporosis Lab at McMaster University. She also contributes to the broader bone-health community as a member of the Osteoporosis Canada / Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation Bone-Fit Advisory Board. Through her clinical practice, teaching roles, and program development, she remains committed to advancing safe, effective osteoporosis management and empowering both patients and professionals with practical, research-informed strategies for lifelong bone health.

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The instructors

Canadian Physiotherapy Association

As the vital partner for the profession, the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) leads, advocates, and inspires excellence and innovation to promote health. CPA’s goal is to provide exceptional service, valuable information and connections to the profession of physiotherapy, across Canada and around the world.

Seniors' Health Division

The Seniors’ Health Division (SHD) is a special interest group within the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. SHD is committed to providing members with services related to older adult health and physiotherapy practice.

It is comprised of physiotherapists from across Canada who work with older adults in a variety of practice settings, including acute geriatric care, geriatric rehabilitative and restorative units, long term care settings, community based and home care settings.

SHD is a member of The International Association of Physical Therapists working with Older Persons.

Vision of the Seniors' Health Division: Older Canadians are moving, moving more and moving better with the help of physiotherapists.

Mission of the Seniors' Health Division: To support our members in providing excellent physiotherapy care to optimize the independence and quality of life of older adults.

Material included in this course

Course Materials
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