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.

Did you know that trauma can be stored in your body and have a significant impact on your bones and overall health? It’s often an unseen force, but the good news is, once it’s recognized, healing is possible.

In our latest episode, I’m joined by Dr. Aimie Apigian, a trauma expert and physician, to explore how trauma affects our body, especially our bones. We discuss the five steps of the body's trauma response and how stored trauma can manifest in ways you may not even realize.

Dr. Aimie’s work has helped countless people, including myself, unlock the healing power within their bodies. I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation and discover how to begin healing stored trauma.

(On stress vs. trauma) "Stress grows us. Stress is what allows us to do more. Stress is what takes us to the next level in our life." ~ Dr. Aimie Apigian

In this episode:

- [00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Aimie Apigian and her backstory

- [06:30] - The difference between stress and trauma

- [14:20] - Understanding the five steps of the trauma response

- [22:38] - How to recognize if trauma is stored in the body

- [33:54] - What you can get from Dr. Aimie's book

- [39:48] - Somatic exercises for healing trauma

- [45:34] - Where to learn more about Dr. Aimie’s work

Resources mentioned

- Check Dr. Aimie's website and order her book: The Biology of Trauma - https://biologyoftrauma.com/

- On-Demand class Dr. Aimie did with the Happy Bones community - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/releasing-hidden-trauma-for-stronger-bones-on-demand

- Free Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - 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.

Is hormone replacement therapy safe or risky? If you’ve been 10+ years post-menopause, the myths can feel overwhelming.

Dr. Tabatha Barber, a functional gynecologist, joins me on today's episode to tackle one of the most common and misunderstood topics in women’s health: hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We’re separating fact from fiction, answering the big questions about HRT safety, whether it’s too late to start after 10-15 years post-menopause, and what other options exist for women who prefer not to go the HRT route.

Dr. Tabatha breaks down the benefits and risks of HRT, explaining the role estrogen plays in bone health, as well as how bioidentical hormones differ from synthetic hormones. She also shares tips on how to handle common symptoms like vaginal dryness.

If you’re wondering about your options for hormone balance and want to know what’s best for your body, this episode is for you!

“Let me help you understand your body and give it what it needs. You can't heal a body you hate—you have to love it, and then it will change." ~ Dr. Tabatha Barber

In this episode:

- [03:32] - Functional vs conventional care

- [09:52] - Impact of HRT on women's health

- [14:20] - Is HRT safe?

- [20:53] - Vaginal estrogen risks and benefits

- [27:50] - How long is it safe to be on HRT?

- [30:35] - Are there tests needed before HRT?

- [36:24] - Alternatives to HRT

- [39:43] - How gut health affects overall health

- [40:52] - Midlife Reset Summit overview

- [43:16] - How to work with Dr. Tabatha

Resources mentioned

- Midlife Reset Summit - https://midliferesetsummit.com/signup?am_id=margie3712

- Dr. Tabatha's website - https://drtabatha.com/

- Free Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - 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.

Are you feeling overwhelmed about the information on what you should and shouldn't eat? Do you want to break free from food restrictions and heal your relationship with food?

In today’s episode, I chat with Mindy Gorman-Plutzer, a certified Functional Nutrition and Lifestyle Practitioner, about reclaiming our relationship with food, especially in midlife. If you’ve struggled with emotional eating, confusion over what to eat, or making sense of the dieting rules out there, this episode is for you.

Mindy’s new book, Midlife Metamorphosis, explores tools like the Pause Technique and the concept of radical acceptance to help you break free from food restrictions and embrace nourishment. We discuss how to heal the disconnect between the mind and body, and why midlife is the ideal time for transformation.

Tune in and discover how to shift your mindset and approach to food, allowing you to experience true freedom and joy with every meal.

“Food freedom is not about eating whatever you want whenever you want. Food freedom is about making choices confidently from that place of abundance, not from a place of scarcity." ~ Mindy Gorman-Plutzer

In this episode:

- [03:28] - Mindy's new book, Midlife Metamorphosis

- [07:03] - How our relationship with food develops

- [12:23] - Radical acceptance: what it really means

- [14:20] - Food freedom is about empowerment, not indulgence

- [15:37] - Mindy’s advice on navigating overwhelming food information

- [23:12] - The Pause Technique and how it can help with emotional eating

- [27:50] - The importance of self-compassion in healing food relationships

- [34:37] - Mindy explains what it means to let go

Resources mentioned

- Free Discovery Call with Mindy - https://p.bttr.to/36nzVUu

- Mindy's website - https://thefreedompromise.com/

- Mindy's book - https://a.co/d/4N7l4MP

- Free Osteoporosis Exercise Video Series - 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.

Exercise is good for strengthening your bones. However, if you have osteoporosis, the wrong gym moves could actually make things worse. These are mistakes I often see, even from well-meaning trainers and fitness enthusiasts.

In this episode, I’m sharing three common gym mistakes that can put anyone with osteoporosis at serious risk, along with alternative actions to take.

You’ll learn why certain movements can increase fracture risk, which popular exercises should be modified or avoided, and how to build strength safely without sacrificing bone health. I’ll also share how to protect your spine, improve balance, and create a routine that supports your long-term wellness.

If you or a loved one has osteoporosis, this conversation is essential before hitting the gym. By making a few smart adjustments, you can enjoy exercise, prevent injuries, and maintain strong bones for years to come.

Tune in now to discover the 3 mistakes to avoid at the gym if you have osteoporosis!

For more information, you can also check the episode below:

The Best Exercises to Prevent Fractures and Strengthen Bones | Dr. Claudia Tamas & Margie Bissinger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FLlEykJ1kg

“No one has to get injured–it's the most ridiculous thing. The machines can really be a benefit when used properly." ~ Margie Bissinger

In this episode:

- [00:43] - Mistake #1: Poor posture and ignoring safety precautions

- [04:10] - Mistake #2: Not activating the core properly

- [07:50] - Mistake #3: Not lifting enough

- [12:10] - Machines and movements to help strengthen your bones

- [19:50] - Final tips for exercising confidently with osteoporosis

Resources mentioned

- Fullscript - Supplements at a discounted rate - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless

- Core. Posture, and Gym Equipment for Osteoporosis-Safe Exercise - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/core-posture-gym-equipment-for-osteoporosis-safe-exercise-on-demand

- Dr. Claudia Tamas Onero Program in Somerset, NJ - https://www.nmrnj.com/our-services/osteoporosis-onero-program/

- Onero locations worldwide -https://onero.academy/locations/

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.

What if the same habits that protect your bones could also save your heart? In this episode, Dr. Kim Millman explains the powerful and often overlooked connection between osteoporosis and heart disease. Dr. Millman is an expert in Functional Medicine and Nutrition Response Testing, two holistic techniques she integrates into her medical practice.

You’ll hear why a simple heart scan could help predict your fracture risk, the surprising role of nitric oxide in keeping both your arteries and bones strong, and how your gut bacteria might be sabotaging your health without you knowing it.

Dr. Millman also shares the truth about vitamin K research, the hidden dangers of blood sugar and high blood pressure, and the nutraceuticals that can actually help repair artery damage.

Listen now and discover how to protect your heart and your bones for life.

“We know that Vitamin D is intricately involved in mineral metabolism and vital to having strong, resilient bones, but also may provide many functions that protect your cardiovascular system." ~ Dr. Kim Millman

In this episode:

[00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Kim Millman

[02:38] - Understanding cardiovascular health

[10:58] - How your bones and heart “talk” to each other

[12:55] - The one heart test every bone health patient should know

[16:17] - Hormones, oxidation, and inflammation affect vascular and bone calcification

[21:32] - How gut bacteria can damage your heart and bones

[25:24] - The vitamins that protect arteries and bones

[35:59] - How sugar, blood pressure, and bad cholesterol weaken you

[38:02] - Additional links between bone loss and heart disease

[39:00] - Powerful nutraceuticals that restore heart health

Resources mentioned

- Restore and Rebuild: 100 Days to Healthier Bones - https://tinyurl.com/restoreandrebuild (Use coupon code HAPPYBONESF25 for $100 off the price)

- Free Webinar For Practitioners - Testing Beyond the DEXA: What Practitioners Must Know - August 25th at 4:00 pm EDT - https://tinyurl.com/osteotesting

- 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.