Welcome to Mayo Connect, @gemma. I hope we can collect some useful information on the challenge you put forth -- addressing osteoporosis without resort to medication. My wife and I both have dealt with this problem, but in different ways. Other members and friends on Connect will have still more information you'll find useful.

My wife was diagnosed with osteoporosis after a bone density procedure, but that was dialed down to osteopenia about 3 months later. She took a medication for five years, but her doctor stopped that when long-term use was discouraged by the FDA. To this day, she is taking calcium supplements with vitamin D3 to strengthen her bones, and like you, she is as athletic and active as ever in her late 70s. In my case, a lumbar MRI showed indications of arthritis when I complained of lower back pain. Physical therapy loosened up my vertebrae. In addition, I found out that back pain came from inflammation of my sacroiliac joints, and fixing that ended my problem 3 years ago. Since then, my daily Glucosamine supplement seems to have coated the joints and prevented new pain.

Maybe there's something in our experience that would be helpful to you. What therapy has your doctor suggested for you?

Hi @gemma. Welcome to Connect. I'm glad you found out little corner of the internet 🙂

I'm sure that news was not only troubling but also really surprising given your health! I'd suggest you check this very active thread about osteoporosis:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/hi-im-new-to-the-site-and-am-interested-in-treating-osteoperosis/

I thank @predictable for already jumping in to help out. I'm also tagging @ggopher, @heritage1955, @emcote63, @arthritichands and @leemiller who have all posted about this topic recently.

@gemma I have had osteopenia for a number of years and since calcium and vitamin D were not enough to help build bone mass, I've also been taking Evista. It is easier on the esophagus and has some added benefits. My father was DXD with osteoporosis before he died so low bone mass is definitely in my genetic make-up. I have been pleased with the Evista.

Thanks for all the replays, I really appreciate. I didn't go to my doctor with the results, I waned to get informed before I accept to any treatment. I made my research and, really don't like what I see.
I started a strong diet based on calcium intake, like taking 4 spoons of organic whole sesame paste daily, plus calcium supplements (Bone Basics) plus Vit. D3. My diet is very very good there is no sugar since I was a kid (I don't like sugary foods), I am vegetarian (no vegan) but I eat eggs and fish, whole cereals and absolutely NOT processed foods. I run half marathons and at least, 30Km a week, I lift weights at the gym, Tai-Chi.....already for almost 30 years. I don't have pains in my back but when I read the results I started to feel my back, I guess psychological. I don't like the idea of having side effects to affect my life, I am a very healthy person.

@gemma Yes, a parathyroid test is a great idea. Many of us with bone mass loss have experienced problems with our parathyroid. Ask your doc to check it out at your next appointment.

I just read your message, I don't want to take these dangerous biophosphonates, so many bad side effects, i'll just keep
taking my Vit. D (2000) Calcium mostly from food, walking and hope for the best. If you can read SaveOurBones Program by V ivian
Goldschmidt.