Caroline Fitzgerald

Biography 

Caroline is a PhD candidate with a strong interest on the role of exercise in improving quality of life, mental health and pain for people living with osteoporosis. Caroline has worked clinically as an AEP for 8 years, with a focus on exercise for mental health and wellbeing.

Research title 

Improving mental health outcomes, including pain and quality of life in people living with osteoporosis.

Research abstract 

Osteoporosis is a progressive, age-related condition typified by decreased bone strength, increased fragility and increase in fracture risk. People living with OP are at an increased risk of minimal trauma fractures, chronic pain, disability, loss of independent function and quality of life, as well as premature death. A correlation exists between osteoporosis and psychological distress. Exercise improves quality of life, mental health and pain levels for people living with osteoporosis. The optimal prescription of exercise, including modality, frequency and load to improve quality of life and mental health for people living with osteoporosis is unclear, and further research in this area is warranted.

Supervisor 

Professor Belinda Parmenter and Associate Professor Kemi Wright