Each week at Strength Lab Plus in Naples, people come and report that they are distressed by a diagnosis of fragile bones—often based on outdated testing. They're told to stop playing tennis, golfing, walking on the beach, or lifting grandkids. Many are prescribed medications with serious side effects, all from limited assessments.

This conventional approach overlooks the complex nature of bone physiology. I offer a more comprehensive, natural strategy—one that has helped many regain strength without unnecessary fear or medication.

Beyond DEXA: A Clearer View of Bone Health

DEXA scans, the traditional tool for assessing bone density, offer a limited, two-dimensional view. They often misclassify individuals, especially those with spinal or joint changes common in active older adults. This leads to alarming diagnoses and overly cautious advice.

At Strength Lab Plus, we use REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry), a radiation-free, 3D technology that provides a deeper look at bone microarchitecture and quality. For example, one woman gave up tennis due to a DEXA result. Our REMS scan revealed her “low” spine density was actually a misread of normal age-related changes. With a personalized plan, she was back on the court in six months.

Looking Beyond Bone Density

Bone health isn’t about a single number. We assess bone turnover markers like P1NP and CTX to understand whether bone is being lost or remodeled. Our approach includes evaluating:

• Hormone levels (estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, cortisol)

• Inflammation and immune health

• Nutritional status (not just calcium and vitamin D)

• Gut health and nutrient absorption

• Sleep quality and stress

• Movement patterns and muscle strength

These insights help us uncover the root causes of bone loss and tailor effective, non-restrictive strategies.

The Movement Paradox

Conventional advice often discourages movement, yet weight-bearing exercise is key to building bone. Mechanical stress stimulates bone growth and improves balance, reducing fall risk.

At Strength Lab Plus, we use bioDensity training—customized resistance protocols that safely activate bone formation. Each client gets a plan based on their biomechanics, not generic restrictions.

The Natural Bone Health Blueprint

My approach to restoring bone strength includes:

1. Accurate Testing: REMS and comprehensive lab work

2. Root Cause Analysis: Identifying systems that need support

3. Personalized Movement: Exercises that build bone without sacrificing lifestyle

4. Targeted Nutrition: Tailored support for full-spectrum bone health

This blueprint empowers individuals to rebuild bone naturally—while staying active, strong, and confident.

Anyone who has received concerning bone density results, remember this is one data point—not a sentence to a restricted life. Bone tissue is dynamic, constantly remodeling based on the conditions you provide. With the right approach, many individuals can significantly improve bone strength without sacrificing quality of life. 

Dr. Krystyna Shepetiuk is a functional medicine specialist focused on bone health optimization at Strength Lab Plus in Naples, Florida. For more information on comprehensive bone health assessment, call 239-544-4114 assessment. Visit ScreenMyBones.us.