Hi @detc, I moved your question about improving osteoporosis without medication to this existing discussion:
- What helps improve osteoporosis without medication? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/healing-osteoporosis-without-medication/

I did this so you can connect with other members like @windyshores @bunky44 @contentandwell @tsc @lee59 @jmanj and others who are talking about lifestyle approaches to managing osteoporosis.

Detc, keep in mind that medications have their place. I worry that you've had a stress fracture with no obvious cause. Some lifestyle approaches like weight bearing exercise may require professional guidance in your case. Have you discussed options with a specialist?

Hi, @detc I'm sorry to hear that you may have osteoporosis. Have you had either a DEXA or an Echolight scan? Echolight is still very rare in the US, there are a very limited number of facilities that have that equipment. Once you have one of those you have more info although I have heard in the case of small-boned people, which it sounds as if you are, the results can be inaccurate.

Your first course of action should be to see either an endocrinologist or a rheumatologist. Both of those specialists have special training in osteoporosis. I think they are equally good. Then you can determine what your best course of action will be. Make sure it is one who really does specialize in osteoporosis. If you live close enough to use a major medical facility then your best options are probably there.

I tried going the natural way and my scores got worse after a bit more than a year so now I am on Tymlos which is one of the few treatments that actually build bone. You can only take it for two years and then it's a must to change to a bisphosphonate to maintain the new bone. I will be done with Tymlos in February and right now I am leaning toward following up with Reclast.

Yes, there can be some very difficult side effects from bisphosphonates which Reclast is one of, but the actual percentage of people with serious problems is minute. Of course if a person has a problem they are the most apt to be on a forum. People who are using these medications and have no problems have no reason to do anything such as that.

It is a tough decision. There is assistance available for Tymlos as @windyshores says, but if you are on Medicare that assistance is not available unless your income is under around $55,000. I'm not sure of the exact number. Tymlos is expensive if you are on Medicare, until you hit the "donut hole" which I have just reached - hallelujah!

I hope you can get an appointment with a specialist reasonably soon so you can proceed to do whatever is necessary to avoid future fractures. Physical therapy can help too. PT for osteoporosis generally includes balance which of course is necessary to avoid falls.
JK

Hi @detc, I am sorry you have osteoporosis. I was surprised by my diagnosis as I was a regular exerciser until an autoimmune disorder curtailed my activities. There is a history of osteoporosis in my family, I was pretty casual about talking calcium, and I drank wine regularly when I was younger. My aunt started getting spinal fractures and died shortly thereafter. She was in a lot of pain.
On the recommendation of my rheumatologist and another doctor I respect, I started taking alendronate a year ago. I have not had any side effects at all. I also purchased a vibration plate exerciser, and do regular weight bearing exercises to try and increase bone density. I just started Dr. Fishman's yoga program - 12 Poses vs Osteoporosis - to increase bone density as well. I do take calcium with Vitamin D and magnesium, boron and Vitamin K and eat more calcium rich foods.
So, I agree with others who have suggested you get a good doctor who specializes in osteoporosis and explore what other things you can do to improve your bone density and reduce the risk of fracture. There are physical therapists who specialize in osteoporosis and yoga instructors certified in Dr. Fishman's method - maybe there are some near you. Also you can find a lot of information by googling. I wish you the best.