Osteoporosis (adjunctive care)
Also known as: osteoporosis, low bone density, osteopenia
Osteoporosis is thinning of the bones that raises fracture risk, often silent until a bone breaks. Diagnosis is by DXA scan, and medical treatment plus exercise are the backbone of care. Chinese medicine sees it as Kidney deficiency failing to nourish bone, with Spleen weakness or Blood stasis contributing.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Weight-bearing and resistance exercise as advised by your doctor or physiotherapist.
- •Adequate calcium and vitamin D; discuss supplements with your GP.
- •Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
- •Fall-proof the home: good lighting, remove loose rugs, grab rails where needed.
- •Take prescribed bone medicines as directed; acupuncture is an adjunct, not a replacement.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Avoid deep or forceful needling and strong manipulation over fragile bone; no spinal manipulation in established osteoporosis.[]
- •Acupuncture does not replace anti-resorptive or anabolic medication where prescribed.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Track pain, function and falls every 4–6 sessions; DXA monitoring stays with the GP or specialist.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthy Bones Australia · 2024
- NHS · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.