Dexa scan results

[Kingcharlesdog]

Just returned from GP appointment. Happy with my Pred reduction ( down to 7 mg ) but told me my dexa scan shows I have osteoporosis in the spine ( T score Lumbar spine L 1-4: -2.6 ) and he says to consider bisphosphonate . I really don’t want to take any more medication. I take Evacal d tablets for my bones . I know I will most probably need dental work in the next year as well.

I would appreciate any of your thoughts on this matter. I have had PMR since March 2024 and I am a 74 years old female.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

If you need dental work then you can at least postpone the decision. Go to the dentist, explain your GP wants you to take bisphosphonates and you would like to get on with any dental work that will be needed in the foreseeable future - because that is what the rubrics say should be done. Complete the dental work - and THEN discuss the bisphosphonates.

What are the t-scores for other areas? Spinal t-scores do tend to be a bit lower than hips. It is difficult to really forecast what will happen. My dexascans over a period of about 12 years of pred were thought totally acceptable and I never took a bisphosphonate but a year ago a spinal x-ray identified a spinal compression fracture, out of the blue. I was started on a course of infusions of zolentronate, about to have the second. The x-ray itself appeared not to be causing any pain - or at least, it hadn't been there to see 2 years before when excruciating back pain had started and that had improved not got worse. SInce the infusion the back pain has improved markedly - but I have had other things done that probably helped as well.

[Kingcharlesdog in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you so much for your prompt reply. My T score for my hips is - 1.6 . I will be seeing my dentist in May of next year and my GP has suggested another scan in November.

Wishing you all the very best for 2025

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Kingcharlesdog]

Can you discuss the need for dental work as soon as possible? The sooner you start, the sooner it will be done and the sooner you could take measures for your bones other than calcium and vit D and exercise. Because you DON'T know what might happen, I didn't.

[piglette]

Biphosphonates help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. With a measurement of -2.6 I think I would consider bisphosphonates. You can also ‘build up’ your bones with weights. I know people on this board have used weighted clothing such as jackets. Why not check with the Osteoporosis Society theros.org.uk where you will be able to get a real feel for what you should do?

[Kingcharlesdog in reply to piglette]

Thank you for your prompt reply . I shall now research another illness! It’s never ending isn’t it!

Wishing you all the best for 2025

[piglette in reply to Kingcharlesdog]

Wishing you a happy 2025 too and best of luck with your research!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Agree with PMRpro… and maybe look at and contact the ROS for more advice after dental work -

theros.org.uk

[Kingcharlesdog in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks so much for your reply. I start off with one illness whisch opens up the door to others😀 Comes with age as well!

Wishing you all the best for the New Year x

[yogabonnie]

My thoughts are this! don't take them with those markers. I wont take them at all. my spine -2.5 and after 5 years went to -3.1 and then I started doing heel drops every day. just lift onto balls of feet and drop down (keeping spine and neck in alignment and looking forward..you can google heel drops) and after 2 years my spine is back to -2.5. All on the same machine as I know that makes a difference. I also take adult beginner very easy silly over 65 TAP classes and I think that helps with bones and balance and brain and oh it is such fun! Good luck! read what Heron has to say!! Bone information. I think it is tagged somewhere.

[Kingcharlesdog in reply to yogabonnie]

Thank you . That is very useful information as I wait for dentist appointment and next bone scan . My daughter has started tap classes at 44 yrs so maybe I will join her 😀 I look after my grandchildren which keeps me active . It’s finding the energy when you have PMR though.

Wishing you all the best for the New Year

[yogabonnie in reply to Kingcharlesdog]

Have you read the Spoon Theory. _ ? I have used it with family and friends and now after years they just say do you have enough spoons_? and if I am tired I say, nope out of spoons. ! I do nap whenever I am tired. Just for a bit and that helps. I teach yoga and walk a lot. Keep on keeping on! and yes! join your daughter that will be such fun!

[Kingcharlesdog in reply to yogabonnie]

yep not long up from a nap😃 Ready for New Years Eve .