Osteoporosis is characterised by a progressive loss of bone density: bones become more fragile and the risk of fracture increases, particularly in the hips, the vertebrae and the wrists. Beyond calcium and vitamin D, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a complementary reading of this terrain, centred on the vitality of the bone and on ageing. In Grenoble, Ghislaine Morin, a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and sophrologist, supports people concerned through this approach.
Why the bone weakens: the view of Chinese medicine
In TCM, bone is not an inert tissue: it depends on the Kidney, considered the root of life. The Kidney produces Marrow, which divides into bone marrow and brain marrow. When this function weakens with age, the production of Marrow decreases and the bone loses its solidity. This is why osteoporosis is read, in Chinese medicine, as a progressive impoverishment of the Jing (vital essence) rather than a simple lack of calcium.
The Spleen, the pivot of acquired life, also plays a role: it is the Spleen that transforms food into energy and blood. A weak Spleen absorbs poorly the nutrients useful to the bone, even when the diet is correct. Kidney and Spleen therefore influence each other, and it is this dual reading that guides the management.
Two pictures frequently seen in consultation
Yang deficiency of the Kidney: the cold that stiffens
Yin deficiency of the Kidney and Liver: the dryness that wears away
What traditional Chinese medicine offers
Acupuncture and moxibustion
Work on the Kidney and Bladder meridians aims to support bone vitality. Certain points are traditionally used to strengthen the lower back and to nourish the Kidney, and moxibustion (gentle heat applied to precise points) is used to warm Yang when the picture is of the cold type. Sessions are adapted to each person's terrain, after an assessment during the first consultation.
Chinese dietetics: cook, warm, nourish
In TCM, food is the first medicine. Favour cooked and warm dishes, wholegrains, well-cooked pulses, black sesame seeds, ground flaxseed and dried fruit. Conversely, raw and cold foods, iced drinks and dairy products consumed in large quantities are said to weigh down the Spleen and to hinder the assimilation of nutrients.
Lifestyle: moving without forcing
Moderate physical activity — walking, qi gong, gentle gymnastics — maintains the circulation of Qi and blood and supports bone structure. TCM insists on regularity more than on intensity: a gentle and constant practice is better than a violent and isolated effort, especially when the bones are fragile.
The combined approach of sophrology and Chinese medicine in Grenoble
In Grenoble, Ghislaine Morin combines traditional Chinese medicine and sophrology in the same care pathway. Where TCM works on the energetic terrain, digestion and sleep, sophrology acts on stress, breathing and the fear of falling — a factor that often limits independence. This complementarity is particularly useful in older people or during menopause, when bone fragility sets in.
Frequently asked questions
Can Chinese medicine increase bone density?
TCM replaces neither calcium and vitamin D supplementation nor the treatments prescribed by the doctor. Its aim is to support the functions that nourish the bone — digestion, sleep, circulation, the vitality of the Kidney — and to improve joint comfort. It forms part of, and complements, medical follow-up.
How many sessions are needed?
It depends on the terrain and on how long the pain has been present. In background support, sessions are generally spaced out and regular, with an assessment during the first consultation to define a suitable rhythm.
Should I stop my medical treatment?
No, never. Traditional Chinese medicine is a complementary practice. No prescribed treatment should be interrupted without the advice of your attending doctor.
Learn more
**Ghislaine Morin**, traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and sophrologist, welcomes you at 29 Quai Claude Bernard, 38000 Grenoble. Book on 06 24 90 04 98 or online at https://calendly.com/centre-equilibre-sophrologie
Discover the practice in Grenoble : www.sophrologue-grenoble.fr/medecine-chinoise-a-grenoble-38000-38100
- Author:Ghislaine Morin
- URL:https://accu-grenoble.com/en/article/osteoporosis-in-grenoble-what-chinese-medicine-can-contribute
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