ONERO program for Osteoporosis

Evidence based Physiotherapy for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak due to a loss in bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures. While there’s currently no cure, the right treatment for osteoporosis—including targeted exercise—can help protect and strengthen your bones, slow the rate of bone loss, and in some cases, even improve bone density.

ONERO is an award-winning, evidence-based exercise program developed specifically for people with Osteopaenia and Osteoporosis. Designed to reduce the risk of fractures, ONERO incorporates high-intensity resistance training, impact loading, and balance exercises. Research has consistently shown that ONERO improves bone density, builds strength, enhances balance, and reduces fall and fracture risk—making it a highly effective treatment for osteoporosis.

The ONERO Program at St Leonards Physiotherapy:

To begin the ONERO program at St Leonards Physiotherapy, you’ll first complete a 60-minute assessment with one of our ONERO-accredited physiotherapists. During this assessment, we’ll carefully consider your medical history, health status, and any pre-existing conditions to ensure the program is safe and tailored to your needs.

You’ll then be introduced to the key ONERO exercises, and once appropriate, you’ll join our small group classes. Each class is limited to a maximum of six people and is supervised by an ONERO-accredited physiotherapist, ensuring proper technique and safety at every session. Exercising in a group can also offer social benefits, particularly as you’ll be sharing the experience with others managing Osteopaenia or Osteoporosis.

Resistance training doesn’t just benefit your bones—it can also improve posture and balance, help manage pain, support weight control, enhance mental wellbeing, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve glucose metabolism.

The ONERO program runs in 10-week blocks, with two sessions per week and a two-week break between blocks (longer over Christmas). This means you’ll attend 20 classes per term. Because osteoporosis requires ongoing management, ONERO is offered indefinitely to support long-term results.

You may attend casually depending on availability, but research shows the best outcomes come from attending twice weekly.

Progress is closely monitored to ensure the program remains safe and effective, and your results can complement regular bone density reviews with your GP or Endocrinologist. 

Costs and requirements

Inital assessment

Required before joining the group program.

Private Health Rebate

May be available for assessments and group sessions—check with your health fund.

Medicare

Eligible clients may use a TCA/EPC referral for the initial ONERO assessment and individual sessions.

Referral

A GP referral is not necessary, but if you have other health conditions, we recommend checking with your doctor before starting.

For further details on pricing and session times, visit our classes page.

Why choose us?

We’re not just here to treat your symptoms, we’re here to help you understand what’s driving them. Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or a chronic condition like osteoporosis, we aim to get you moving well and feeling better with care that’s grounded in clinical evidence and real-life outcomes.

 If you’re looking for a trusted osteoporosis physio in St Leonards, we’re ready to help.

Jacques O’Hearn

M.Physio (Physiotherapy) B.App.Sc (exercise and Sports Science)

Jacques is a physiotherapist with a strong foundation in exercise science and several years of experience delivering exercise-based rehabilitation in both individual and group settings. After completing his Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of Sydney, he went on to graduate with a Master of Physiotherapy from UTS, gaining broad clinical experience across musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, and neurological settings.

Jacques takes a thoughtful and collaborative approach to treatment, focusing on clear assessment, patient education, and evidence-based exercise rehabilitation. He enjoys helping people return to the activities they love, striving to make rehabilitation meaningful, achievable, and tailored to each individual. His experience in delivering structured exercise programs has strengthened his ability to coach movement effectively, progress programs safely, and support people of all fitness levels.

In the clinic, Jacques combines hands-on therapy with targeted strength and conditioning and movement retraining. He values good communication, rapport building, and empowering patients with the tools and confidence they need to manage their health long-term.

Outside of work, Jacques enjoys spending time at the beach, playing golf, participating in social sports and strength training, and exploring the Northern Beaches with his wife.

Jacques O'hearn - Physio