Inhibition of osteopenia by low magnitude, high-frequency mechanical stimuli

The identification of anabolic agents for the treatment of metabolic bone d isease is a highly prized, and elusive, goal. In searching for the osteogen ic (bone-producing) constituents within mechanical stimuli, it was determin ed that high frequency (10-100Hz) and low magnitude (<10 microstrain) stimu li were capable of augmenting bone mass and morphology, thereby benefiting both bone quantity and quality. Using animal models, it is shown that these mechanical signals can double bone-formation rates, inhibit disuse osteopo rosis and increase the strength of trabecular bone by 25%. Considering that the magnitude of these mechanical signals are several orders of magnitude below those which cause damage to the bone tissue, it is proposed that this modality could be useful in the treatment of metabolic bone diseases.