Bone Health Technologies

Bone Health Technologies (BHT) is a medical technology company addressing the significant market of low bone density, specifically targeting osteopenia, the precursor to osteoporosis. The company was founded in 2018, spinning out of the TheraNova medical device incubator. The original idea came from founder Dr. Shane Mangrum, a physician who, in his clinical practice, saw the debilitating effects of vertebral compression fractures and identified a need for more effective, non-pharmaceutical prevention options. He sought to adapt the science of whole-body vibration into a more convenient and targeted form.

The company's core product is the Osteoboost Vibration Belt, a prescription-only wearable device. This belt is the first FDA-cleared, non-drug treatment for osteopenia in postmenopausal women. It received FDA De Novo clearance and Breakthrough Device designation in early 2024. The device works by delivering precisely calibrated mechanical vibration to the hips and lumbar spine, areas at high risk for fractures. This localized stimulation, based on NASA research into preventing bone loss in astronauts, mimics the effects of high-impact exercise to encourage the body's natural bone regeneration process. A daily 30-minute session can be integrated into routine activities like walking or cooking.

BHT's business model centers on the sale of the Osteoboost device, which requires a doctor's prescription. The company facilitates this through its website, offering telehealth consultations for prescriptions and selling the device via an online pharmacy. As of late 2024, the device is available for self-pay at a price point of $995, with eligibility for HSA/FSA payments, and the company is actively working to secure insurance and Medicare coverage. To create a more holistic platform, BHT acquired Wellen, a digital health company specializing in personalized exercise programs for osteoporosis, in July 2024. The nationwide launch of Osteoboost commenced in May 2025.

Clinical validation is a cornerstone of the company's strategy. A pivotal, double-blind, sham-controlled trial funded by the National Institutes of Health demonstrated that using Osteoboost at least three times per week significantly slowed bone loss. Specifically, results showed an 85% reduction in vertebral bone density loss and an 83% reduction in vertebral bone strength loss compared to a placebo group, with no serious adverse events reported. The company is led by CEO Laura Yecies, a seasoned technology executive with a track record of scaling companies like SugarSync and Catch, the latter of which was sold to Apple. The leadership team also includes co-founder Dr. Michael Jaasma as Chief Scientific Officer. BHT has secured substantial funding, including over $4.9 million in grants from the National Institute on Aging and more than $14.25 million in venture capital from investors like Good Growth Capital, Esplanade Ventures, and Terumo Medical.

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