Just diagnosed with osteoporosis,and prescribed AA,

[Freshmimt]

I dexa scan few weeks ago and results show osteoporosis in spine and neck,,

I’ve only been on pred since June so must have had it for quite a while, can’t remember the t score, but doctor said it is severe.

Separate ultrasound scan showed widespread osteoarthritis, wrists hands spine neck.

I also ha e PMR, any advice please, feeling a bit down.

[HeronNS]

If you can get your t-scores that would help us give you appropriate advice. However, even fairly serious bone thinning can be managed and bone density improved without the use of medication. Provided you have not had a "fragility" fracture I believe you would do well to try so-called natural methods. One thing is to make sure you know how to move and exercise in ways which will guard your spine and strengthen the supporting muscles. A physiotherapist can help with this but there's good info on line these days. Then there are micronutrients beyond the usual calcium and Vitamin D which will help, Vitamin K2 (not K1) and magnesium, among others. Then getting enough weightbearing exercise, again, being careful of your spine, especially if your vertebral t-scores are concerning.

It may not be a bad idea for your doctor to run a few tests to make sure there are no other secondary causes for loss of bone mass besides the possible influence of pred. By the way the most serious effects on the bones do occur in the earliest months of taking pred.

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[Freshmimt in reply to HeronNS]

Thank you Heron, lots of information, which I really do need, thanks

[HeronNS in reply to Freshmimt]

It's a start, don't hesitate to ask questions, lots of people here have gone through what you are facing.

[Blearyeyed in reply to HeronNS]

Great advice Heron

[Hidden]

Hi freshmimt, sometimes the doctors idea of severe does not reflect the true picture so it's worth getting the t scores as really without them it's hard to help you much. I have osteoarthritis in my neck back and hands but only have osteopenia at a level you might expect for my age.

The good thing is that even if you are in the osteoporosis range there are dietary changes that will help as well as exercises. HeronNs, who has experience of these techniques, will be along I would think.

Hopefully, you will start to feel a bit better soon. It's a lot to take in in a few months. 🌻

[Freshmimt in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Poopadoop, Heron has replied, with good info, Doc said it is definitely osteoporosis not osteopenia, but will get in touch and get proper readings, thanks for you replyx

[Hidden in reply to Freshmimt]

It takes me that long to type a reply. 🤣🤣🤣

[Freshmimt in reply to Hidden]

I know the feeling, started this post ages ago, fingers would not co operate. Thanks x

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Freshmimt]

Well yes - but -2.5 is the borderline: -2.5 is osteopenia, -2.6 is osteoporosis but there isn't much difference!

[Freshmimt in reply to PMRpro]

Will get the correct scores, and get to know what I’m really dealing with, thank you x

[Blearyeyed]

Hope you are not feeling as low as you were when you wrote the post , as you see there are lots of people out there who can give some great advice and support on this , and I'm sure all the forum will be ready with a hug of a shoulder if you need it.

It's hard to come to terms with new health issues , but you survived being diagnosed with PMR and are keeping strong , so I'm sure you will be able to get control of this too.

When you put up your results In sure that you will be able to get even more help and reassurance about what do about AA.

Don't worry , just breath , let you head come to terms with it , and you will get there.

Big hugs xxx

[Freshmimt in reply to Blearyeyed]

Thanks Blearyeyed, yes I’m better, just a bit of a shock, and don’t fancy AA,

Lots of reading to do and info to gather, keep me busy and not dwelling, thanks for your kindness xx

[Rosina1871]

I was recently diagnosed also following a dexa scan and was very surprised as I’ve always exercised and kept to a good diet. I was a bit down about it but have started taking AA, reluctantly, without any side affects so far. Good luck

[Freshmimt in reply to Rosina1871]

Thank you Rosina, glad your doing well xxx

[-xtine]

I took Alendronic Acid for 2 years without side effects. Do tell your dentist and have regular dental check ups. Best wishes.

[Freshmimt in reply to -xtine]

Thanks you ztine, will do, pleased your doing well