When were you diagnosed with osteoporosis?

How long have you been diagnosed with low bone density or osteoporosis? What was the trigger for diagnosis? What made you seek an initial opinion?

Please share your experiences and interact with other members in the comments below!

We're here to answer any questions!

[klovestobake]

My first bone density exam was 2010. Results showed osteopenia and very slight osteoporosis. My physician told me to ignore, but to continue calcium & Vitamin D supplements, exercise. I discovered I was lactose-intolerant (after 20+ years of suffering!) and have now been dairy free for over 20 years. I eliminated gluten and other foods (following low FODMAP diet as per a GI doctor's recommendation) 4 years ago. Excellent results for digestive health.

2nd bone density exam was 2015. I followed up with my general physician as to treatments available. I consulted a rheumatologist and also an endocrinologist. Because of my complex GI issues, I am fearful of injections/drug treatments. I currently am learning bone-strengthening exercises (catered to those with osteoporosis) with a private, trained Pilates specialist whom my physical therapist (treated me for an ankle issue) recommended.

I also see a nutritionist/holistic caregiver who is helping me maximize my calcium in my diet and oversees supplements (i.e., B12 vitamin liquid supplement, Vitamin D, Vit. K, etc.).

In about 2 months or so, I plan to follow-up with the rheumatologist, who wants to do a new bone density exam with "new software."

I do feel like I'm managing this osteoporosis diagnosis practically alone. I found out that my 86-year old mother has had osteoporosis "for a long time" but has done no treatment whatsoever!

[Hidden in reply to klovestobake]

Wow! You are on top of it! What kind of "new software" is your doctor referring to? I'm wondering if he's suggesting a TBS (Trabecular Bone Score)?

[klovestobake in reply to Hidden]

I don't know anything about the software; I'll be going back for a follow-up appointment in a couple of months.

[christy81256]

I am 61 and In good health and went thru early menopause at about 47. I found out accidentally that I had brittle bones and went to an endocrinologist. Long story short I found out I had parathyroidism. One of my parathyroid has a tumor which was causing my bone loss. Calcium was going to my blood and not my bones. Had surgery to remove the tumor but sill have osteoporosis so I just take calcium and boniva and exercise and hope for the best. So I have osteoporosis for a long time now

[Hidden in reply to christy81256]

Hi! Wow- you were very young when diagnosed. Although I'm sorry to hear about the tumor of your parathyroid, I'm glad they were able to catch your weakening bones before there were any fractures. We always advise all low bone density/osteoporosis patients to use caution when exercising.

If you're interested- here are a few tips to make sure your exercise program is safe: americanbonehealth.org/exer...

Thanks for sharing!

[Silverrabbit]

My trigger for diagnosis was concern due to family history. Several older adults in my father’s family had broken their hips.

[Hidden in reply to Silverrabbit]

Hi! I'm glad to hear you were proactive and went to get screened. It truly is so important to know your family history of any disease. Thanks for sharing!

[Siamang]

I’ve been hovering around in normal and osteopenic range with regular testing since my mid 50’s. Just slipped into osteoporotic range a year ago aged 72.

GP not overly concerned but still recommended prolia. Had 1 and found back pain increased and had other side effects too. No more meds -taking algaecal,vit D & K2. Doing exercise program with weights. Now 10 months post injection and starting to feel more my old self! Next scan in 18mths.