Functional Medicine and Osteoporosis: A Root-Cause Approach to Bone Health

Osteoporosis is often described as a “silent disease.” It develops slowly over time, with few symptoms until a fracture occurs. By then, bone density has already been significantly compromised. Conventional medicine typically addresses osteoporosis by focusing on bone density scans (DEXA) and prescribing medications that slow bone loss. While this approach has value, functional medicine asks a deeper question: Why is bone density decreasing in the first place?

Advanced Testing Beyond Bone Scans

While DEXA scans tell us the “what” (bone density status), they do not tell us the “why.” Functional medicine uses advanced biochemical testing to reveal patterns that contribute to bone breakdown or impaired remodeling.

Some of the most helpful insights come from comprehensive panels that measure markers related to:

• Bone turnover (markers of bone breakdown vs. bone formation)

• Hormone metabolism and balance

• Nutrient status at a functional level (not just blood levels, but how well the body is utilizing nutrients)

• Inflammatory markers and oxidative stress

• Digestive and absorption efficiency

One advanced panel integrates dozens of metabolites to create a personalized map of how your body is functioning. This can reveal, for example, if poor digestion is limiting calcium absorption, if stress is elevating cortisol and weakening bone, or if low Vitamin K2 is preventing calcium from being directed into bone tissue.

The Functional Medicine Approach

Functional medicine looks at osteoporosis not as a stand-alone diagnosis, but as the result of interconnected systems in the body. Bone health depends on more than just calcium intake. It requires balanced hormones, efficient digestion, nutrient absorption, a healthy gut microbiome, optimal inflammation control, and proper regulation of the nervous system.

By exploring root causes, functional medicine providers can identify underlying imbalances that contribute to poor bone health, such as:

• Nutrient deficiencies (Vitamin D, K2, magnesium, zinc, boron, and protein intake)

• Digestive dysfunction that impairs mineral absorption

• Hormonal imbalances (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, thyroid)

• Chronic inflammation or autoimmune activity

• Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress

• Dysregulation in the gut–bone axis

Personalized Care for Stronger Bones

Armed with this data, a functional medicine provider can create a targeted and personalized plan. Recommendations may include:

• Nutrition: Diets rich in minerals, collagen protein, omega-3s, and polyphenols

• Lifestyle: Weight-bearing and resistance exercise, reducing smoking/alcohol, improving sleep

• Supplements: Precisely chosen based on test results (Vitamin D3/K2, magnesium glycinate, strontium, boron, etc.)

• Hormonal Support: If appropriate, addressing imbalances in thyroid, adrenal, or sex hormones

• Gut Health: Restoring microbiome balance and digestive function for proper nutrient absorption

A Comprehensive, Whole-Person Path Forward

Osteoporosis isn’t just about brittle bones—it’s a reflection of overall health. By investigating root causes and tailoring care to each individual, functional medicine provides a proactive and empowering approach to bone health. Instead of waiting for fractures, you can take steps now to strengthen bones, improve resilience, and support longevity.

O’Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic
651-292-8072
www.improveurhealth.com

Meet Dr. Shannon O’Keefe, DC, DCBCN

Functional Medicine Specialist | Board-Certified Clinical Nutritionist

Dr. Shannon O’Keefe is a dedicated Functional Medicine practitioner with advanced training in internal diagnosis and clinical nutrition. She is a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) and a Diplomate of the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition (DCBCN). Her expertise lies in identifying and treating the root causes of complex, chronic health conditions through a personalized, systems-based approach.

With a strong foundation in functional medicine and clinical nutrition, Dr. O’Keefe specializes in uncovering metabolic, hormonal, and biochemical imbalances that conventional care often overlooks. She is passionate about helping patients understand the “why” behind their symptoms and guiding them toward long-term healing through nutrition, lifestyle, and integrative therapies.

Her clinical interests include:

• Hormonal health and metabolic balance

• Digestive and gut-related disorders

• Autoimmune conditions

• Cardiovascular and endocrine function

• Nutritional strategies for prevention and longevity

Dr. O’Keefe is known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen deeply and design individualized care programs that meet each person where they are. She believes true healing comes from addressing the body as an interconnected whole.