I am new here, just as a few minutes ago. I can empathize with not wanting to start drug treatment. I only recently found out I have osteoporosis at age 65. And, for my age, my doctor said my lower spine was severe, but femoral neck of my hip not as bad. In any case, what a shock! But, like you, I have tried not to panic and look at the big picture. I’ve been researching the topic, purchasing books and listening to bone health experts for two months now . . . . I’ve learned that various types of weight training and IMPACT exercises can help increase bone density. But the most important thing I learned is that a DEXA score doesn’t PREDICT a fracture. It just alerts you to having more vulnerable bone density that “could” fracture. But what holds our bones in place, in part? Muscle! And, muscle strengthening pulling at bone stimulates bone growth if there’s enough impact and pull. But I’m likely preaching to the choir, as you sound like you’ve also looked into all of this to take a holistic path, as I am. Balance exercises help us stay up to prevent falls and keep our balance. In any case, this is the first entry I’ve written on here, so just learning about it all. I apologize if I’ve errored in any way. I’ve added new foods to my diet that are helpful, also. I’m sure you know — and I’m like you, that we need to educate ourselves and do whatever we can through education, diet & exercise to prolong any drug interventions. I was given two years to give it my best, without medications — according to my doc, before I get another DEXA to see if there’s any improvement. But The DEXA isn’t the only marker of bone health! There are OTHER tests that help assess bone remodeling — how much bone we are currently losing and how much we’re gaining. This was VERY important for me to know NOW. Once I found out about these tests - I was determined to get them! (even if insurance won’t cover them). My general physician agreed to order these on my account, though it’s not a “routine” test given. I’m waiting on the CTX and P1NP boner marker tests, just to see how much bone I’m losing and how much I’m gaining now. (I had been going to the gym for the past year, I might add). Everyone who has osteopenia or osteoporosis, even without being on medications, should know the health of their own bones, so that you can assess it in 8 months or more to see if the changes you make, make a difference. I’ve learned that what’s important is the RATIO of these tests. I will start another thread on another day about how frustrating it is to find anyone who knows how to interpret these tests!!! The health care system, at least in my area, is lacking in so far as helping those who do NOT want to go on medications — and offering tests to assess bone health like these. I’m not too happy about that and rather frustrated, to be honest! I see you wrote a year ago. How are you doing now?? I have no idea if you can private message people on here, as I’m new at this. Keep on doing what you’re doing and I wish you all the best!