Are you struggling with knee pain or want to prevent it? Today, I sit down with Laurie Kertz Kelly, a physical therapist and co-founder of the Better Knees Method, to explore a proven three-pillar approach to improving knee health without the need for medication, injections, or surgery.

She explains why X-rays don’t tell the whole story, the importance of addressing joint fluid and cartilage health, and how small, targeted exercises can make a huge difference. You’ll learn practical steps to lubricate your knees, strengthen cartilage, and gradually build load tolerance so you can get back to activities you love.

Plus, Laurie shares two simple exercises you can do at home to start improving knee mobility and reducing pain immediately.

"If you're having some knee pain, it's not a permanent situation. If it's arthritis, it's related to inflammation–you get rid of the inflammation, you get rid of the pain and the problems." ~ Laurie Kertz Kelly, MPT

In this episode:

- [00:00] - Introduction to Laurie Kertz Kelly and the Better Knees Method

- [03:36] - Why X-rays don't predict knee pain

- [08:49] - Importance of joint fluid and cartilage in knee health

- [13:46] - Three-pillar approach: soothing, strengthening, and mobility

- [19:49] - Easy exercises: squats and chair-based movements

- [21:54] - Success stories of knee pain recovery

- [27:05] - Two key exercises to relieve knee pain

- [31:56] - Knee replacement option

- [36:04] - Using injections effectively with physical therapy

- [41:33] - Step-by-step guide to quad sets and sitting sliders

Resources mentioned

Healthier Knees to Support Your Bones - November 6th at 12:00 pm EST. https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/build-stronger-healthier-knees-to-support-your-bones (Laurie will be teaching this class live with the Happy Bones, Happy Life community. Everyone who registers will get continuous access to the replay.)

Laurie's 3-step guide to building better knees at home - https://enjoystrongerknees.com/

Laurie's website - https://betterknees.com/

Get quality supplements at Margie's Fullscript dispensary for a discounted price - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless

More about Margie

Website - https://margiebissinger.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en

DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

*In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Imagine a natural solution that could help reduce inflammation, improve bone health, and ease joint pain–all with the power of essential oils.

In this episode, Dr. Eric Zielinski, a leading expert in essential oils, reveals the incredible science behind these healing oils and how you can use them to transform your wellness routine. He shares his decade-long research, revealing how essential oils can support your body’s healing processes on a cellular level. From improving mineral absorption to preventing osteoporosis, these oils are not only soothing but also transformative in their effects. We also explore simple, do-it-yourself formulas that you can incorporate into your daily routine.

Tune in and discover how nature’s pharmacy can help you live a healthier, more vibrant life!

"There's such an empowerment where we know that we can take care of ourselves...And quite frankly, essential oils are a key part of it because they are the flavor, they're the fragrance, they are the antimicrobial component that you really need." ~ Dr. Eric Zielinski

In this episode:

- [00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Eric Zielinski and his work

- [02:24] - Insights and the latest research on essential oils

- [13:52] - How essential oils help improve bone health

- [18:24] - Incorporating essential oils in your daily life

- [24:52] - Activating your body's God-given self-defense

- [43:16] - Top essential oils for pain relief

- [48:49] - How to choose high-quality essential oils for health

- [52:34] - The power in being able to create what you need

Resources mentioned

- The Gut Reset Masterclass - https://ofi385.isrefer.com/go/eol-live/healthfit/

- Get Your FREE eBook & Discover How to Heal Your Gut with Essential Oils - https://ofi385.isrefer.com/go/eol-live-eguide/healthfit/

- Free Osteoporosis Exercise Video Series - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises

More about Margie

- Website - https://margiebissinger.com/

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en

DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

*In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability, and many people believe there is little they can do about it. In today's episode, Dr. Karena Wu joins me to share how physical therapists can offer effective treatments, from manual therapy to exercise regimens.

Dr. Wu, a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with advanced training in manual therapies and over 24 years of experience, explains how techniques like cupping, dry needling, and blood flow restriction can aid in recovery and even delay the need for surgery. We also discuss why early intervention is crucial and how to locate a physical therapist who specializes in arthritis treatment.

Whether you're experiencing arthritis or seeking preventive care, this episode is packed with essential information to help improve your quality of life.

"Studies have shown that manual therapy with exercise after is always more effective because you're loosening up things that need to be loosened up in order for the muscles and the function to be there. So you always have to do both to restore as much function and get back to quality of life with the least amount of pain." ~ Dr. Karena Wu

In this episode:

- [02:15] - Why arthritis is becoming more common and its risk factors

- [05:20] - Physical therapy in arthritis treatment: the role of various specialists

- [13:16] - Mobilization vs. manipulation

- [17:37] - The benefits of cupping and dry needling for arthritis pain relief

- [22:55] - Blood flow restriction: a game changer for arthritis treatment

- [28:22] - Prevention strategies: why early intervention is crucial for arthritis

- [32:55] - How stem cell and PRP treatments can complement physical therapy

- [42:35] - How often should someone see a physical therapist?

- [44:32] - Final advice from Dr. Wu and how to get in touch

Resources mentioned

- Dr. Karena Wu's website and clinic information - https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com/ (Use the code Happy Bones to get a 20% discount on certain services)

- Get quality supplements at Margie's Fullscript dispensary for a discounted price - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless

More about Margie

- Website - https://margiebissinger.com/

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en

DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

*In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.