Recommendations regarding meds and exercise with osteoporosis.

[KatVin]

Hi Everyone! A few questions I would like to comment on….It was suggested to me by a physical therapist who specific osteoporosis about a book written by Jen Guenther, an OBGYN in Canada, to read one of her books, The Menopause Manifesto, which debunks many of the myths regarding medications, exercise, etc., for people diagnosed with osteoporosis. I had stopped plyo exercises because I was afraid it would cause a fracture. I know that stressing the bones is good, and have always did weights along with many other types of exercises, but had modified since my diagnosis. After a session with this particular therapist who recommended the book, I am doing more of what I had been doing. Also, I just started Ibandronate, 150 mgs a few months ago and seem to be tolerating it ok. A friend of mine was prescribed Foxamax years ago, had bad side effects and found a supplement called, New Chapter Bone Strength which she started taking a few years ago. Her latest Dexa scan has shown significant improvement and she attributes that in part to her New Chapter Bone Strength sups, along with exercise and good nutrition. For me, I am going to continue on Ibandronate (generic Boniva) for awhile, but may consider this type of supplement as well. Any thoughts on the Book , Menopause Manifesto or the supplement Nee Chapter Bone Strength? Thanks you and enjoy the Memorial Day weekend!

[DakotaMae]

Hi KatVin, have also just recently started a similar plant-based calcium supplement. My sister-in-law swears by it based on recommendations from her friend who also said it improved her numbers. My exercise is now limited due to PMR, but I’m quite sure I had osteoporosis already when I was an ultramarathoner and cyclist for the last ten years. I did lots of weights and core strengthening will no ill effect. My spine is now -3.9 so I avoid twisting movements. I took Forteo for one year but stopped since I don’t want to be on the drugs forever. Sounds like you’re getting good advice and making good decisions. Good luck to you.

[KatVin in reply to DakotaMae]

Thank you. And good luck to you as well!

[Alisa25]

I too have been taking New Chapter Bone Strength since I was first diagnosed with osteoporosis and osteopenia in 2016. I work out with weights, walk, play tennis and use a rebounder. I didn’t get another dexa scan until 2021 and my numbers got worse. I still take New Chapter but have added more supplements and have now started Fosamax as of 2 months ago with no problems thus far. I only started taking Fosamax because lab work showed an increase in my bone resorption and I hope to slow that down. I’m having lab work done again next month, and hopefully, things will look stable or better. If all is good, I’ll continue with Fosamax and supplements until my next Dexa scan in 2022. My hope is to discontinue Fosamax then. We’ll see. I haven’t read the Menopause Manifesto, but will check it out. Good luck to you!

[KatVin]

Thank you. Keep us posted on your results!

[NatureGirl7]

I just ordered the book from the library. I will let you know what I think in a couple weeks.

[KatVin]

Thanks!