BECKLEY, W.V. (LOOTPRESS) – As kids go back to school and parents suddenly find themselves with more free time, many are looking for ways to lose weight and feel better while doing it. Inshape WV, a local weight loss and hormone therapy clinic that has been helping thousands of southern West Virginians create healthier lifestyles since 2012, is currently preparing for this back-to-school rush.
“Usually, we see an increase early in the year and an increase in May before vacation season,” said Inshape WV owner James Ellis. “July is kind of a slow time, but when school starts, we see another increase.”
Sherry Sanchez, LP, a wellness consultant and office manager for Inshape WV, says in her eight years with the clinic she has noticed an uptick in clientele toward the end of summer.
“Everybody’s on vacation. People are saving up for school clothes and getting ready for school…In August and September, kids are going back to school. Parents have more time on their hands where the kids are going back to school, and they know holidays are shortly around the corner.”
In preparation for the next few months, Sanchez says the clinic will extend its hours of operation and increase the number of providers present so more patients can be seen at once.
Sanchez attributed Inshape’s success to their personalized approach to weight loss and hormonal therapy as they work to battle West Virginia’s high obesity rate.
“The response has been amazing,” she said, explaining the clinic’s offerings.
According to Sanchez, each patient receives different treatment depending on their situation.
“A lot of times, patients have underlying issues where they are not able to lose weight. They’re trying, they’re exercising and eating right, but the weight is not coming off.”
A majority of the time, Sanchez says a lack of progress stems from a hormonal imbalance.
“We check your hormone levels- men and women both- to see if you’re not optimized and if your hormone levels are not, then we start therapy.”
Inshape WV has been using BioTE hormonal therapy since 2018. BioTE is a bioidentical, natural pellet that is placed under the skin and later dissolves.
“You have no idea how bad you feel until you feel good,” Sanchez said, explaining that a hormone imbalance can cause mood swings, a lack of energy, irritability and joint pain. “Your hormone levels will depend on what your dosage will be. All of our plans are individualized, whether it be for weight loss or hormone replacement therapy. We really tailor to the needs of each of our patients.”
BioTE is commonly for men and women in their 30s and 40s; however, Sanchez says exceptions can be made for younger patients who have low levels if they are approved by an endocrinologist.
“This is one program that I feel like has really benefited our community…We have changed so many lives with BioTE,” Sanchez noted.
‘We just want to provide services for getting people healthy and help them get in shape and improve their lifestyle and feel better in general,” Ellis added. “We really take time with our patients and understand their problems and issues. Pretty much, everyone leaves motivated and happy with their services.”
Inshape WV is currently accepting new patients. Those interested can call the office at 681-238-5258 or visit inshapewv.com to fill out the required new patient paperwork before scheduling an appointment.
Inshape WV is located at 956 N Eisenhower Drive in Beckley.