Garrett, 43, is not your typical osteoporosis patient. Generally affecting older women, this common bone disease, characterized by loss of bone density, can lead to breaks and fractures. Many don’t realize that younger patients can develop bone loss especially if their lifestyle choices are not the healthiest. This is exactly what happened to Garrett nearly two years ago.
The good news is with diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, combined with a custom-designed physical therapy program patients can often increase muscle strength, stop bone loss, and potentially reverse it.
Garrett took his diagnosis seriously. He has inspired many with his new lease on life and continual improvement to his overall health. Like so many who are struggling during the pandemic, he used the time positively to focus on himself. Below is his story:
What happened following your initial diagnosis?
In August 2018, I was diagnosed with osteoporosis, which is very unusual for a 41-year-old male. I had had three fragility fractures in my knees, which scared the daylights out of me. I had to make a big decision: “Do I want to get busy living or get busy dying?” It wasn’t an easy decision because I was out of shape and I was drinking. My doctors told me that the drinking was the main contributing factor and it was causing low vitamin D, calcium, and testosterone levels. Right then, I made the decision to quit drinking and haven’t looked back.
What led you to Atlantis Physical Therapy?
Up until a few months ago, I was doing okay on my own but realized I needed more help. I did some research and found Sara Meeks, who is an osteoporosis guru. She referred me to Sharon Kato at Atlantis Physical Therapy and that is where my training really began.
How has Sharon helped you?
After a comprehensive evaluation, we started very slow, with specific stretching exercises and working on my core. I learned everything starts at your core and affects your balance and posture. I had to relearn how to stand and correct my posture. Then, we moved on to light weight training. I have actually reversed my osteoporosis to osteopenia (weak bones, but not subject to easy fractures or breaks). This is something a lot of people wish they could do. But, it takes more than wishing and actually requires a lot of work, but it can be done. Surprisingly enough I also found as I felt better physically, I also felt better mentally. And my brain was functioning better. I know if I can do it anyone else can do it.
What is next for you?
It has now been two years and I am so thankful that I found Sharon Kato and Atlantis Physical Therapy. My journey has taken me through many different routes and APT has taken me to a better me. Since seeing Sharon, I have increased my bone density 5.4%, which is amazing. I have better flexibility and even improved my blood flow. Although I have lost 1/2,” of height, my friends and family say I look taller, mostly because of the way I now carry myself.
Every day I try to get stronger, work out harder, stay focused on my family and friends, and just be positive. I know all those things put together led to a stronger me. My bones have gotten stronger, my brain has gotten stronger, and my outlook on life is just more positive. There certainly hasn’t been a lot to smile about this year for so many of us. Right now, for me, I’m smiling because internally I’m doing better and it’s showing externally. I don’t know where this journey is going to take me, but it’s going to take me further. As long as I keep doing what I’ve learned from Sharon Kato at Atlantis Physical Therapy, what I’m learning on my own, and from other people helping me I think I’m going to continue to improve, be positive, and enjoy life to the fullest.
What advice do you have for others?
It sounds kind of corny or cheesy, but you have to want to live. You have to want to grow bone if you have osteoporosis. You can’t just sit there thinking I’m deteriorating and there is nothing I can do. You have to know there are people out there that can help and make your life more enjoyable.
