Bones in Balance

Bones in Balance

Bones in Balance is a four-week, self-management program designed for anyone diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, who also has associated pain or postural changes. Each week, a healthcare professional will discuss topics important to those with low bone density such as:

• An overview of bone density testing and review of each individual's test results by a nurse educator.
• A review of calcium supplements also taught by a nurse educator.
• A healthy, calcium-rich diet, taught by a registered dietitian.
• Medications used to treat low bone density, taught by a registered pharmacist.
• Emotional issues that may come about after being diagnosed with low bone density, taught by a medical social worker.
• Weekly instruction in weight-bearing exercises designed to strengthen bones, taught by a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.

Enrollment is limited for each month-long class. There is a $25 registration fee that covers the cost of educational materials; the balance of the tuition is billable to insurance. As Bones in Balance incorporates physical therapy services into each class, a physician's order is required to attend.

All classes are held on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. or 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Center for Outpatient Services, St. Joseph. To register, call (269) 556-7150.

Retired Navy physician Sandy Reed, 63, felt like her world was shrinking due to her osteoporosis that was until she began participating in the Bones in Balance program. Learn more about her story in the video below: