It is a generalization, and generalizations are only generally correct, and not correct in all cases, but in general – osteoarthritis occurs when there is too much stress in a joint, and osteoporosis occurs when there is too much stress. One situation wears out the joint and it degenerates, in the other situation the joint atrophies. Neither case is great but, again – in general, the cure for one condition is the cause of the other. It is very rare that someone will suffer from both conditions at the same time.
So, if a student has osteoarthritis care must be taken to not over-stress that joint. This is challenging because if no stress is applied, osteoporosis can set in and you get the worst of both worlds. The key then is to find the Goldilocks’ position that works for that student with her unique condition. This is described in my
article on Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga, which I recommend you read.
For a greater level of insight, I would recommend you look up Dr Loren Fishman who has written books on both osteoporosis and yoga and arthritis and yoga. He has a good
web site you can start with.
Regarding your point about the Denis Browne Splint: this is generally applied to infants to correct a club foot. What sort of issues has your student developed from that?
Cheers
Bernie