I am petite, but I consider myself strong. I am 70 years old, 5'1.5" and weigh between 108-110 pounds. I consider myself "small boned." After 5 years without a DXA, I had one last March and the numbers scared me considerably. My hips were only slightly osteoporadic, but my spine was -4.5. I then made an appointment with an osteoporosis specialist in Central Florida, who I heard did not "push" prescription medications. The first appointment was 3 1/2 months away. Although I previously had researched osteoporosis and non-medication treatments, I continued with vigor. I read in many places that women with small wrists may have inaccurate DXA scores. I believed it.

After my first appointment with the specialist, I asked her about inaccurate DXA scores for petite women. She said that was wrong. Instead, she started pushing me to start Evenity after the series of blood tests, spine Xray and cardiac screening were complete. I left her office dejected and annoyed that I think she looked at my numbers and not me.

Prior to my second appointment, I learned about Echolight REMS technology and pretty much decided that Central Carolina Othopedic would likely be the location of my second opinion. I had watched a video of a symposium on REMS where the doctor at the facility stated that DXA scores can be inaccurate for petite women (like his wife).

My osteo specialist changed her mind during our second visit and thought that Prolia may be a better choice than Evenity since my bone resorption rate was elevated. I asked her about testing my bone quality. She said that they could test for TBS but insurance may not pay since I had a DXA 5 months ago. I told her I did not care since I was prepared to travel to NC to get a REMS scan. The doctor informed me that she thinks TBS is better than REMS. (I am not sure I believe her, but will get a TBS). It so happens that the DXA in my doctor's other office has TBS software. (I am still dumbfounded that I had to ask for it and it was not offered). I had an appointment for the DXA with TBS last Friday, but it was canceled by the facility the day before "due to scheduling conflict." Hopefully, my appointment this Friday will not be canceled.

Sorry for the lengthy explanation, but I am convinced that my DXA scores are low partially because I am petite. I strength train 3x/week, walk daily, swim every other day, climb stairs daily, practice yoga daily, take supplements and eat healthy. I feel like I am strong and I think I look like I am strong.

I am still trying to read everything I can and am doing my best to avoid osteoporosis medication. In fact, Great Bones by Dr. McCormick should be delivered to me this afternoon.