PMR, steroids and osteopenia.

[Sunshine8888]

Firstly thank you to everyone who has replied to my latest post, what an amazing community you all are! It really helps to know I am not alone, so many questions about PMR and steroids, so much to learn. I now feel that if I get the chance to talk to a doctor I can at least hold my own to some extent.

Before being diagnosed with PMR, I was diagnosed with osteopenia. I am currently on 20mg per day of steroids. I’m taking calcium, Vit D and Vit K2. Does anyone have any advice on what else I could or should be doing?

From everyone’s replies it would seem I’m on quite a journey, thankfully I’m part of this community and am truly grateful for your support 🙏

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Actually osteopenia isn’t a diagnosis -it just means your are many not as strong as they could be.

There is loads of info in the FAQs under bone health -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[Sunshine8888 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you I’ll read through all the information 🙏

[PMRpro Ambassador]

As DL mentions - osteopenia isn't a pathological state, not a disease or illness. All it means is that your bones aren't quite as dense as they were on average at age 30. They can be anything from almost normal to almost osteoporosis so it is important ro know the actual numbers, the t-scores. If the bone density is still good then you may only need calcium and vit D. If they are less good then at some point you may need to start to take bisphosphonate medication but that should be a discussion not made in haste, If you have your t-score numbers it may help to speak to someone on the Helpline at ROS, the Royal Osteoporosis Society and there is a lot of information on their site.

theros.org.uk/information-a...

[Sunshine8888 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you for your reply I’ll definitely look into the information and helpline 🙏

[piglette]

One suggestion that some people on this board have made is to wear a ‘weight’ jacket. They can be purchased from that well known company beginning with A.

[Gimme]

Traditionally, weight bearing exercise is meant to help with maintaining bone density. But obviously, for those of us with PMR, that may not be as easy as it sounds and depends on ow the illness affects you. Walking is often said to be the best type of exercise for people with PMR, but I find it too painful to walk for any distance and get on better with using the weight machines in the gym, so long as I don't overdo it with the weight that I am shifting or do too many reps.

[borednow]

Helpline at ROS are brilliant. Highly recommended!!