Written by Tim McGonigle
Two Clients, Two Very Different Outcomes
Two clients, both instructed in our osteoporosis/bone health program, have had their repeat dexa scans. Their results tell quite a story.
Client #1: A Meaningful Improvement
Client #1 was diagnosed with osteopenia one year ago. They bought the concept that cell signaling was the missing link from previous bone health programs and the foundation of creating more robust bone matrix. They participate in our group exercise sessions on a regular basis and they casually incorporated the bone cell signaling exercises scattered throughout their daily activities. Their dexa scan in February indicated a dramatic change in their bone density, which improved from osteopenia to normal! There were no other lifestyle or medication changes that could account for the dramatic change.
Client #2: A Different Path, A Different Result
Client #2 was instructed in the bone cell signaling routine but chose to take a supplement that guaranteed improvement in bone density, to train hard in a typical gym resisted exercise program and to take frequent vigorous hikes. Their dexa scan in March revealed a progression of their osteoporosis as their T-Scores had worsened. During our phone conversation last week, client #2 stated that they had not performed the cell signaling exercises as they assumed the supplement, resisted gym exercises and hiking would surely be enough. They had been very confident going in for the repeat dexa scan as they felt so strong and fit, and had taken the supplement faithfully. They are now ready to believe the science that without new bone cell production the quality of the bone matrix cannot improve. They have an appointment to review the cell signaling routine next week.
What the Research – and Experience – Is Showing
Research evidence confirms what osteoporosis patients and practitioners have known for decades. Without the production of new bone cells the traditional method of preforming weight bearing activities and fairly heavy resistance exercises alone does not improve bone density. Enhancing bone density requires the additional step of stimulating the proliferation of more bone cells. Fortunately, as proven by our client #1, the cell signaling routine can easily be incorporated into many daily activities, takes just a few moments, and appears to be the key to giving people influence over their bone health.
Why Both Steps Matter: Signaling and Loading
While we wish we could just dispense the cell signaling program to the FPT community, it does have to be thoughtfully performed to mitigate the risk of injury to the associated joints and discs, and to the bone itself. For those who have good cognition, musculoskeletal health, and body sense, your specific routine can be taught in a session or two. Once learned, this aspect of the program is performed as a quick home exercise program or just simply incorporated during daily activities. Once the new cells are produced, the stresses of weight bearing activities and fairly heavy resistance exercises serve the purpose of maturing the new cells into better bone matrix. Bone health requires both.
Getting Started Is More Accessible Than You Think
For those with good cognition and a fairly healthy musculoskeletal system the cost of getting your program started is minimal. It is covered by Medicare and often reimbursed through our Superbill program for those with commercial health insurance. We can provide the support you need to be successful through either individual sessions, or participation in our gym or group exercise programs.
Final Thought
Don’t let nature have its way with your bones when doing something about it is now so accessible. For more detailed information about the program see our previous newsletters and video on our website.
