Just before retiring I decided I needed to have some baseline medical stats. Prior to that time I didn’t bother to go for an annual physical. For the most part, I am a very healthy 70-year-old. I rarely become ill with even a cold although I do suffer with allergies in the Spring. So one may imagine my surprise when I learned I have osteoporosis.
When my doctor recommended Fosamax I read about the side effects. To my dismay I learned that one of the side effects was bone loss in one’s jaw. In order to have dental work, you are supposed to quit taking the medication for a time period. Additionally, calcium and vitamin D supplements are recommended with the medication as long-term studies showed a 2% decrease in calcium in the first month. Several more minor side effects are listed. I understand there is a risk in taking any medication. Being one of those people who shies away from pharmaceuticals, I began looking for alternative solutions.
My medical massage therapist recommended OsteoStrong. I gave it a try and love it! Focusing on the skeletal system, OsteoStrong uses four machines, each targeting a different area of the skeletal system. A trainer works with each client to reach a target “weight” or pressure based on one’s personal needs. This wellness system is designed to improve bone density, balance, and overall strength.
Each week I attempt to beat my own record. A graph is displayed while using each machine. The graph shows previous work, target goal, and peak. I find it quite motivating to watch the graph climb as I push to do better each time. Some weeks are not as good, but that’s okay. And the trainer is super supportive and encouraging. Not being big on exercise, I find this easy-to-use system to be a great option for me.
OsteoStrong centers are licensed to individuals in service areas and can be found around the world. Fans of Tony Robbins will learn that he and his wife are said to use the system. The cost is comparable to many exercise facilities, but I recently learned that the Renew Active program that comes with some medical insurance includes OsteoStrong. I am looking forward to my one-year marker when I will take another Dexa scan to see if my bone density has improved. For now, I will continue to challenge myself and attend my OsteoStrong session each week.
Silver Sage Sisters 