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Osteoporosis affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50, leading to fractures that can reduce independence and quality of life. The condition often develops silently over years, but it doesn’t have to. At BioStrong, we focus on early detection, prevention, and safe, natural ways to strengthen bone through osteogenic loading and osteopathy.

Understanding Osteopenia, Osteoporosis, and T-Scores

Bone density is often measured using a T-score. The T-Score compares your bone strength to that of a healthy 30-year-old (the age when bone density is typically at its peak).

• Normal bone density: T-score of –1.0 or higher
• Osteopenia: T-score between –1.0 and –2.4
• Osteoporosis: T-score of –2.5 or lower

For example, a T-score of –1.8 means your bones are thinner and weaker than average and in the osteopenia range. It also shows that you are not yet at the level of osteoporosis. Even in this “middle zone,” fracture risk is already higher, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.

This is why osteopenia is such an important stage to catch. It’s the warning sign that bone loss is happening, but it’s also the best window of opportunity for effective prevention. With the right approach, many people with osteopenia can stabilize or even improve their bone density before osteoporosis develops.

Why Early Detection Matters

Bone loss can happen without symptoms until a fracture occurs. That’s why bone density testing is so important:

• DEXA scans: The current gold standard, measuring bone mineral density by X-ray at the hips and spine with minimal radiation.
• Echolight REMS scans: A modern, radiation-free ultrasound method that assesses both bone density and quality (microarchitecture). It’s less affected by artifacts like scoliosis or metal implants and can also provide body composition data.

At BioStrong’s Avenida location, we offer Echolight bone density scanning for anyone interested in knowing more about their bone density and body composition. This scan is a safe, comfortable, and quick way to track bone health without radiation.

How Osteogenic Loading Works

Research shows that bones need a very specific kind of force to trigger new growth. This is where osteogenic loading comes in:

• Using specialized equipment, we help clients generate safe, controlled forces that mimic the type of stress bones need to grow stronger.
• Sessions are low-impact and joint-friendly, making them suitable even for older adults or those with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
• Benefits can include improved bone density, balance, posture, and muscle strength, which are all key for fracture prevention.

The Evidence

Human studies clearly show that mechanical loading helps maintain or improve bone density:

• High-Load Resistance Training: A 2021 meta-analysis found significant increases in bone mineral density at the spine, hip, and femoral neck in people with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
• Low-Load, High-Repetition Training: A 27-week program showed up to 8% bone density improvements in multiple sites, even with lighter loads.
• Loading Dose Studies: Trials in adult women show that more frequent, higher strain loading sessions lead to measurable gains in bone mass.
• Impact + Resistance Exercise: Middle-aged and older men saw bone density improvements at the spine and hip over 9 months of structured loading.
• Jump Training in Postmenopausal Women: Even short, daily bouts of one-legged jumps improved bone material strength within 3 months [onlinelibrary3431].

Together, this evidence proves that bones can adapt and strengthen at any age — especially when action is taken early in the osteopenia stage.

Why Choose BioStrong?

• Dual expertise: Osteogenic loading for bone density + osteopathy for mobility and pain management.
• Advanced scanning: Radiation-free Echolight scans at our Avenida location for precise monitoring of bone and body composition.
• Trusted locations: Foothills Professional Building (NW Calgary, near University Heights & Parkdale) and Avenida (SE Calgary).
• Evidence-based care: Every program is built on current research and tailored to your needs.

Take the First Step Toward Stronger Bones

If you’re worried about osteopenia, osteoporosis, or simply want to protect your bone health as you age, the best time to act is now.

📅 Book online 📞 Call us at 403-978-9780 to schedule your initial appointment.

Your bones can grow stronger and BioStrong can help you get there.

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