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Any non fracture members?
I guess I’m just looking for some encouraging words. I was diagnosed in February and still working through the different stages of grief/loss. I seem to have more days stuck in depression/sadness.
So, was just wondering if anyone on here has dealt with OP for quite a while and hasn’t fractured? I know you can fracture even if your scores are osteopenia range. I feel like everyday I’m just waiting for a fracture to happen. Im exercising 6 days a week and watching my food intake. I’m just hoping as time goes on this feeling lessens. Sometimes I’m not sure if it’s the diagnosis that’s making me sad or just the fact that I’m getting older, I’m 60, and reality has finally set in.
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@fidget53
"From that point on it seems that you can never stop taking them."
This is a false statement. Most osteoporosis drugs are only meant to be taken for a few years. People with "severe" osteoporosis usually cycle on and off them every few years. This avoids the more serious (and rare) side effects.
"She passed this year at 97 and over the last 4-5 years she has fallen at least 6 times, several requiring stitches but never broke a bone. She too had osteoporosis!"
I am glad your mother never had to suffer the consequences of a fracture. She may have been very lucky, or her osteoporosis may not have been "severe" like yours. Just because she won the "lottery" does not mean you will too
While lifestyle habits like strength training and nutrition are vital for bone health, they aren't enough once someone reaches the threshold of severe osteoporosis. At that stage, the structural integrity of the bone is compromised to the point where natural remodeling can't outpace bone loss. A -3.0 T score means one has lost 30% of one's bone density already!
Medications—whether bone-builders or anti-resorptives—are critical tools specifically designed to lower the high risk of a life-altering fracture, like a spinal compression or hip break. Most people are able to take these medications with no side effects, or temporary side effects.
"My DEXA scan said severe osteoporosis but I knew from the beginning I was NOT going to take any medications."
This indicates to me you have already made up your mind. My response is aimed at those who are genuinely trying to find the best treatment for themselves, i.e., those who do not want to face the debilitating pain and disability caused by a fracture.
Here are a list of anabolic drugs, usually the 1st line of defense for severe osteoporosis.
Romosozumab (Evenity)
Vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~73% decrease
Non-vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~25% decrease
Teriparatide (Forteo)
Vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~65% decrease
Non-vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~35% to 50% decrease
Abaloparatide (Tymlos)
Vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~86% decrease
Non-vertebral Fracture Reduction: ~43% decrease
I have severe osteoporosis of the spine. After 1 years of Tymlos,
my T score has gone from -3.1 to -2.4. I ave experienced no side effects with Tymlos, and I am a small 100lb female.
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2 Reactions@fidget53
Thank you for sharing that uplifting story! I'm 67, work full time and have a full and active life with severe osteoporosis - and like you, will never take the medication. Once I learned that you can never stop taking the medicaiton, or the bone loss comes back with a vengeance, that was enough for me to decline. I chose the Liftmor weigh lifting program and have never looked back.
@msoto8318
"Once I learned that you can never stop taking the medicaiton, or the bone loss comes back with a vengeance,"
Where did you get this information? It is so important to have the best substantiated and credible information and research to make the best treatment path for ourselves.
Saying that I hope the Liftmor is exactly what you need on your bone journey.