Preventing Osteoporosis and Osteopenia in Melbourne | How BoneStrong at Keilor Road Physiotherapy Can Help
▫️Written by John Keller
✅ Reviewed by Dr. Jenny Hynes on July 10th, 2025
Are you or a loved one concerned about bone health, osteopenia, or osteoporosis? You're not alone. At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we’re passionate about helping our community build stronger bones and reduce fracture risk—especially as we age. Our tailored BoneStrong classes and expert physiotherapy-led approach are here to help you stay active, independent, and strong.
This blog will explore what osteoporosis and osteopenia are, who is at risk, and how our evidence-based BoneStrong program—backed by the landmark LIFTMOR study—can support prevention and even improvement in bone mineral density.
What is osteoporosis and osteopenia?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become brittle and fragile due to a loss in bone mineral density (BMD), increasing the risk of fractures—particularly in the spine, hip, and wrist.
Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis, characterised by lower-than-normal bone density, but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.
Both conditions are often silent until a fracture occurs, making prevention and early intervention vital.
Risk factors for osteoporosis and osteopenia
Postmenopausal women
Men over 70 years
People with a family history of osteoporosis
Individuals with a history of low calcium intake or vitamin D deficiency
Sedentary individuals or those with limited weight-bearing activity
Long-term use of certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids)
Why is osteoporosis and osteopenia prevention so important?
In Australia, over 1.2 million people are affected by osteoporosis, and more than 6.3 million have osteopenia. Osteoporotic fractures can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, loss of independence, and even increased mortality in older adults. Prevention is not only possible—it’s powerful.
Best physiotherapist for osteoporosis in Melbourne
Physiotherapy plays a central role in the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of osteoporosis. At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we focus on:
Targeted exercise programs to stimulate bone formation
Postural training to improve alignment and reduce fall risk
Education on safe movement and fall prevention
Progressive strength training to improve muscle mass and coordination
Introducing BoneStrong: Keilor Road Physiotherapy’s Strength-Based Program for Bone Health
BoneStrong is a physiotherapist-led, small-group strength training class specifically designed for people with osteopenia, osteoporosis, or low bone density.
Whether you’ve already had a DEXA scan or want to proactively strengthen your bones, BoneStrong is tailored to your level and goals.
Backed by Science: The LIFTMOR Study
The BoneStrong program is based on the principles of the LIFTMOR study (Watson et al., 2018), which stands for Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation. This landmark study showed that high-intensity resistance and impact training (HiRIT) is not only safe but highly effective for postmenopausal women with low bone mass.
Key findings:
Significant improvements in bone density at the spine and hip
Improved muscle strength and function
No increase in injury risk when properly supervised
Reductions in falls and fracture risk
These results challenge the outdated belief that high-intensity exercise is too risky for individuals with low bone mass.
What to Expect in a BoneStrong Class
BoneStrong classes are run by our experienced physiotherapists in our fully equipped onsite rehab studio in Niddrie. Every participant receives:
✅ A comprehensive one-on-one assessment before joining
✅ Supervision by a trained physiotherapist with expertise in bone health
✅ Small group sizes for individualised attention
✅ Evidence-based resistance and impact exercises
✅ Support and motivation in a welcoming, empowering environment
Is BoneStrong Right for You?
You may benefit from BoneStrong if you:
Have been diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis
Have a family history of bone loss or fractures
Are postmenopausal or over the age of 60
Want to prevent fractures and maintain independence
Prefer supervised exercise programs with expert guidance
Why choose Keilor Road Physiotherapy?
Located in the heart of Niddrie, Keilor Road Physiotherapy has built a strong reputation for evidence-based care, expert physiotherapists, and tailored health plans that help our patients meet their goals. With onsite rehab facilities, strength testing technology (AxIT), and friendly staff, our clinic is a trusted destination for osteoporosis and osteopenia prevention in Melbourne's northwest—including Essendon, Keilor East, Airport West, Aberfeldie, and Tullamarine.
FAQs about Osteoporosis and BoneStrong
Q: Is exercise safe if I’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis?
A: Yes, especially when supervised by a physiotherapist. High-intensity resistance training has been shown to be safe and beneficial for improving bone density.
Q: Do I need a referral to join BoneStrong?
A: No referral is needed. We conduct an initial assessment to determine your suitability and tailor your program.
Q: How often should I attend BoneStrong?
A: Twice a week is recommended for optimal results, consistent with the LIFTMOR study guidelines.
Q: Can men join BoneStrong?
A: Absolutely. While osteoporosis is more common in women, men are also affected, especially after age 70.
Q: What if I’ve never lifted weights before?
A: That’s okay! Our physiotherapists will guide you through safe, progressive exercises suited to your ability.
Ready to build stronger bones?
Take charge of your bone health with Keilor Road Physiotherapy. Whether you’re looking to prevent osteoporosis or manage a current diagnosis, BoneStrong can help you stay active, independent, and strong for life.
References
Watson, S. L., Weeks, B. K., Weis, L. J., Harding, A. T., Horan, S. A., & Beck, B. R. (2018). High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training Improves Bone Mineral Density and Physical Function in Osteopenic Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 33(2), 211–220. https://doi.org/10.1002/jbmr.3284