Onero™ Program: Evidence-Based Exercise to Combat Osteoporosis and Enhance Bone Health
Understanding the Onero™ Program: Revolutionising Osteoporosis Care
Osteoporosis, a condition characterised by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures, affects millions of individuals worldwide. The Onero™ program is an innovative, evidence-based exercise program designed to combat this debilitating condition. By stimulating bone development and preventing falls, Onero™ offers hope and improved quality of life to those with osteoporosis or osteopenia. In this blog, we’ll delve into the science behind Onero™, its implementation, and the significant benefits it offers to at-risk individuals.
The Science Behind Onero™
Onero™ is grounded in robust scientific research, particularly the findings from the LIFTMOR (Lifting Intervention for Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation) and MEDEX-OP (Medication and Exercise for Osteoporosis) trials. These trials have demonstrated the efficacy of intensity resistance and impact training in improving bone health and physical function in individuals with low bone mass.
The LIFTMOR Trials
The LIFTMOR trials, both for postmenopausal women (LIFTMOR-W) and men over 50 (LIFTMOR-M), provide the cornerstone evidence for the Onero™ program.
LIFTMOR-W Trial: This study involved postmenopausal women with low bone mass, comparing high-intensity resistance and impact training (Onero™) with low-intensity exercise. Results indicated significant improvements in bone mineral density (BMD) and physical function among participants in the high-intensity group, with no adverse effects on vertebral health.
LIFTMOR-M Trial:Focused on men over 50 with low bone mass, this semi-randomized controlled trial compared Onero™ with another bone-targeted exercise strategy, bioDensity/Osteostrong. The high-intensity training regimen proved superior in enhancing bone strength and reducing fracture risk.
The MEDEX-OP Trial
The MEDEX-OP trial compared high-intensity exercise (Onero™) with a Pilates-based program (Buff Bones) in postmenopausal women, both on and off-bone medication. This study found that Onero™ was more effective in reducing indices of fracture risk and improving geometric indices of hip bone strength, regardless of medication status.
How the Onero™ Program Works
Onero™ is a high-intensity resistance and impact training program tailored to enhance bone density and strength. It focuses on critical areas such as the lower back and hips, which are most vulnerable to fractures. The program is designed to be brief yet intense, making it both effective and manageable for participants.
Key Components of the Onero™ Program at Beyond:
Initial Assessment, participants undergo a comprehensive 60-minute assessment with a qualified Onero™-trained allied health professional, such as an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist. This session includes evaluating bone health, physical function, and individual needs.
Participants join 60-minute supervised classes, with a maximum of four participants per class, ensuring personalized attention and safety. The program is designed so that clients do 2 x 60 minute classes per week over a 12 month period. The program is designed to cater for your level, you begin at a ‘beginner’ phase and progress your exercises and strength over time under full supervision of your practitioner.
Benefits of the Onero™ Program
Improved Bone Mineral Density (BMD): Research from the LIFTMOR trials shows significant increases in BMD among participants, reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures.
Enhanced Physical Function: The high-intensity exercises improve muscle strength, balance, and overall physical function, crucial for fall prevention.
Safety and Supervision: The program is designed with safety in mind. All exercises are supervised by trained professionals to minimize the risk of injury, making it suitable even for those with severe osteoporosis.
Evidence-Based Approach: The Onero™ program is backed by rigorous scientific research, ensuring its effectiveness and credibility.
Understanding Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
Osteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions marked by reduced bone density, leading to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures. While osteoporosis is more severe, osteopenia is a precursor condition, indicating lower-than-normal bone density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.
Risk Factors:
Age: Bone density decreases naturally with age.
Gender: Women, especially postmenopausal women, are at higher risk due to hormonal changes.
Family History: A family history of osteoporosis increases the risk.
Lifestyle: Sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to bone loss.
Symptoms:
Often, there are no symptoms until a fracture occurs.
Loss of height over time and a stooped posture.
Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra.
When to Get Checked
Regular bone density tests are crucial for early detection and management of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Individuals should consider getting tested if they:
Are over 65 years old.
Have a family history of osteoporosis.
Have experienced a fracture after a minor fall or injury.
Have conditions or take medications that affect bone health.
Safety of the Onero™ Program
The Onero™ program places a strong emphasis on safety. The exercises are designed to be intense but controlled, ensuring they are safe for individuals with low bone mass. The program’s safety protocols include:
Professional Supervision: All sessions are supervised by Onero™-trained health professionals, ensuring exercises are performed correctly and safely.
Gradual Progression: The intensity and complexity of exercises are gradually increased based on individual progress and capabilities.
Regular Assessments: Ongoing assessments help monitor bone health and adjust exercises to prevent overexertion and injury.
The Onero™ program represents a significant advancement in the management and prevention of osteoporosis and osteopenia. By leveraging high-intensity resistance and impact training, it offers a scientifically proven method to improve bone density, enhance physical function, and reduce the risk of fractures. For those at risk, the Onero™ program is not just an exercise regimen; it’s a pathway to a healthier, more resilient future.
At Beyond, we are excited to offer the Onero™ program at our East Melbourne, Blackburn, and Ocean Grove locations. Launching in August 2024, we invite you to register your interest and take the first step towards stronger bones and a better quality of life. Register your interest here.
