Back pain & Osteoporosis

[stockport1965]

I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis a couple of weeks ago. It was diagnosed as I was complaining of back pain. I am apparently borderline for any meds. However I still have the lower back pain (where the OP is worse) and in top of hips. I have been told that OP doesn't cause pain. X rays of back show it is OK. No fractures etc.

I am doing the recommended weight bearing exercises and Vit D3/Calcium etc but I cannot get a handle on the pain. It is starting to make me feel depressed as it has been going on since March 2020.

Can anyone offer any advice?

[Fruitandnutcase]

Well it’s good that your x-rays look ok. Did you have a DEXA scan to diagnose your osteoporosis? If so what were the results?

If you are lucky enough that you haven’t been given any meds then keep up with your diet, the weight bearing exercise and bone friendly minerals.

You’re right about constant pain being depressing I’ve ended up with a very depressing, ongoing shoulder problem (following a broken wrist) that wakens me every night, totally exhausting.

Don’t know if you are taking K2-Mk7 along with your D3 and calcium you could add that as it directs D3 and calcium to your bones. I take that along with vitamin D and some calcium, magnesium, boron, an omega 3 algae oil and a couple of other things.

Would your doctors refer you for some gentle physiotherapy? Even better if you can find a physio who does Pilates and you will get some good exercises to strengthen your core which might help with your backache.

I know if I get lazy and don’t walk enough I get lower back pain, once I start walking again it disappears - but that’s just my body, yours is a completely different body what suits one person doesn’t necessarily suit another and remember that you shouldn’t do anything that causes you pain. Sometimes my Pilates is hard work but it’s never painful.

Hopefully other people with more knowledge will give you more advice - I’ve only been diagnosed for a year.

[stockport1965 in reply to Fruitandnutcase]

I have an appointment with the surgery physio on Friday. Initially its a phone call but she will see people if needed. I work as a cleaner, so wonder if I should cut back on the job as it really is not helping. Maybe a back brace/belt may help me. I love to walk, maybe not today as it is still icy. I like pilates and do one on youtube for OP.My diet has had a complete overhaul. It was bad, not much fruit and a small amount of dairy. To be honest I'm enjoying it. Just had sardines!

Will look into K2.

Thanks

[Met00]

I get back pain, but it's caused by a slipped disc. That didn't show up on x-ray, an MRI was needed to diagnose it. Likewise not all fractures show on x-ray, particularly if they're only very tiny ones, and arthritis doesn't always show either. I would ask your GP to refer you for an MRI scan to find out what's causing the pain. In the meantime, avoid any forward bending of the spine, as that puts huge pressure on the discs and vertebrae, so can end up damaging them.

[stockport1965 in reply to Met00]

Met00 - I had an MRI in October and all was fine

[Collywobbles64]

Hi I too complained about lower back pain and got diagnosed with osteoporosis. It turned out that I had spondylollistheis (vertibrea slippage). It all got blamed on my MS but I paid privately to see a top consultant who diagnosed this and I have now had an operation to fuse the affected area as well as a discectomy

[Sunseaandsand]

Hi, Sorry to hear of the pain you are having.

It makes it all so much worse when we can not find out the cause.

It is true that Osteoporosis does not cause pain.

That is why it is called the silent disease.

When fractures occur that is when you experience the pain.

It is very good news that you do not need treatment.

My advice to you would be to stay as active as you possibly can, have a good sensible diet and take the supplements suggested to you by other members.

Is it possible your pain could be brought on and aggravated by some part of your job.

For instance if you are using any heavy electric cleaners ect.

It may be how you yourself are handling them, if your posture is not quite right.

Even think about the mattress you sleep on as the wrong type of mattress can cause all sorts of problems.

Do everything you can to protect your bones now to avoid problems later on.

Bend from the knees, do not lift or carry heavy objects and do not overstretch or twist in any way.

As for a brace, do not be tempted in anyway as wearing one will weaken your back muscles.

Take care of yourself and stay safe.

[Cappuccinobaby]

Have you had your blood calcium checked? If its high it could be caused by hyperparathyroidism which causes aching bones and muscles and ultimately leads to osteoporosis and/or kidney stones. Worth a quick blood test !

[56jennywren]

Hi,

Sorry to hear of your ongoing pain. Ask for a referral to pain management.

Have you obtained a copy of the report from your MRI and all other records?

Please do not rely on your doctor telling you everything fine.

[Artistic-Grandma]

I suggest you ask for a second opinion on your x-ray results. It just might result in an explanation for your pain. Try not to get depressed. Good luck.