UNMC will be taking part in a national study of a novel, non-drug intervention to treat osteopenia in postmenopausal women and currently is enrolling applicants.
The study, led by Laura Bilek, PhD, associate dean for research in the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions, and in conjunction with Bone Health Technologies, will focus on bone turnover marker results when using the device, called the Spry Belt. This device is worn like a belt for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, and delivers energy that may help address low bone mass.
Osteopenia is bone loss that has not yet reached the diagnostic criteria of osteoporosis. Current guidelines call for use of medication after diagnosis of osteoporosis. Recommended treatment for osteopenia focuses instead on diet and exercise to prevent the disease from progressing to osteoporosis.
BHT and UNMC recently conducted a pivotal trial, which found a positive impact of its device on bone density and bone strength after one year of treatment.
The second study continues the research by looking to identify potential markers which indicate the effectiveness of the device.
“The need for a non-pharmacological approach to reduce bone loss in post-menopausal women has never been greater,” Dr. Bilek said. “We are pleased to continue our research partnership with BHT.”
The UNMC team will test the nonpharmacologic intervention, which could be incorporated into the preventive regimens recommended to postmenopausal women. The three-month study’s goals are to see test changes in biochemical markers of bone turnover.
There will be urine and serum measurements of bone cell activity, reflecting both bone formation and bone resorption, before and during use of the device. These markers could serve as early indicators of effectiveness of the treatment.
The study will enroll 40 patients who are diagnosed with osteopenia. Participants in the study will receive advanced analysis and monitoring of their bone health. Those interested in the study can find more information on the project’s website.
Bone Health Technologies is a leading innovator of technologies for improving bone health and preventing bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
The IRB# is 252-22-CB.