The Spokane Osteoporosis Center specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, helping to promote strong bones and reduce the risk of fracture.
Dr Kohlmeier had the opportunity to speak with Sally Field in Seattle at the
Flower and Garden Show Feb 23rd. With the support of Roche and GSK
Pharmaceuticals, the two-time Academy Award and three-time Emmy Award winning actress is promoting osteoporosis awareness around the country. | ![]() Sally Field, Lynn Kohlmeier, MD, Renee Hasler |
Sally Field and Dr. Kohlmeier discussing osteoporosis
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The second annual Sprint Triathlon for Osteoporosis Awareness, the Westplains Wunderwoman, in North Eastern Washington near Spokane, took place August 17th, 2008. 700 women, many with osteoporosis or low bone density themselves, swam 1\4 mile in Medical Lake, bicycled 10 miles, and then walked or ran 3 miles around the lake. Free heel bone density screening tests was available for anyone over 30 years old and who had never had a test. With 5 heel machines, hundreds of the almost 2000 spectators present were told their risk of fracture and how much calcium, vitamin D and exercise is recommended for strong bones. Click to see Photos from 2008 Triathlon
A panel of women most with osteoporosis or fractures answered questions about their own diagnosis and treatment, such as how celiac disease can decrease calcium absorption, or why many years of Depo-provera can cause low bone mass.
Women who were severely vitamin D deficient due to past gastric bypass surgery, and even men with osteoporosis and testosterone deficiency were on the panel to help increase awareness and prevent fractures!
Dr Lynn Kohlmeier, director of the Spokane Osteoporosis Center and the triathlon osteoporosis education volunteers, gave a 20 minute presentation before the triathlon award ceremony, discussing how impact exercise and back extensor strengthening helps build bone mass. She answered questions and reviewed healthy lifestyle choices and medication options for fracture prevention!
Anyone interested in organizing a walk or triathlon for osteoporosis in their community, please contact the National Osteoporosis Foundation, and consider starting with the 'Steps for Your Bones' Program, currently on-line through the NOF. The NOF donated hundreds of brochures and information on osteoporosis, calcium and exercise for the triathlon participants. For more information, to www.NOF.org
URGENT ACTION NEEDED - Senator DXA Bill to be introduced and marks an important step in our battle to protect patient access to osteoporosis testing.This legislation will be the Senate companion to H.R. 4206, the "Medicare Fracture Prevention and Osteoporosis Testing Act of 2007."
Dr. Kohlmeier volunteered as a consultant for the senior fitness television program, SIT AND BE FIT, helping to develop their Osteoporosis Workout II. The workout, has recently been awarded the 2006 National Health Information Merit Award. In the workout, Dr. Kohlmeier reviews the factors affecting bone health and the role exercise plays in reducing falls and preventing osteoporosis.
Bone Density and Body Composition by DXA are available at our
Osteoporosis Center. For you or your medical provider to schedule a bone density test, please fill out the BMD Order Form or call our office to schedule one or both tests. What is Body Composition and Body Mass Index, and Why Is It Important?