Connect
Has anyone received differing diagnosis from different doctors
My endochronologist confirmed osteoporosis based on the DEXA scan showing -3.2 TOTAL Radius value on my forearm scan. My back is normal and I had bilateral hip replacement years ago from long distance running so no hip reading. My rheumatologist subsequently (2 months later) advised I have osteopenia rather than osteoporosis, with a Radius 33% (1/3) value of -2.3, and said I do not need Tymlos at this time. She suggested Reclast instead. The DEXA scan does not reflect a Radius 33% reading, just the total -3.2 value. I have not been able to obtain clarity. Have temporarily suspended my Tymlos injections after starting in late September. Any suggestions would be welcome. Still working out 4 days per week and taking supplements.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.
Connect
Radius 33% does not mean 1/3rd value! It is the bone density in the distal one-third of the radius (the longer bone in the forearm.) If your DEXA didn't measure it specifically, you don't know the value. If your doctor is actually taking your -3.2 value and reducing it by a percentage, that doctor is a incompetent idiot and you should never go back.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 Reactions@njx58 That's what I thought. Thank you
@njx58 In addition, my radius 33% reading in 2018 was -2.2 and this new doctor claims it is now -2.3. Even if it is -2.3, that is close enuf to osteoporosis, but the report did not even list the radius 33% value. I won't go back to her and will resume injecting Tymlos (tho' I don't really want to do so). She suggested Reclast.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@willowmena Resume your Tymlos injections. You're going to lose bone density if you just stop; you may have lost some already. An anabolic has to be followed up with something else.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reactionwillowmena, if you have osteoporosis or osteopenia, Tymlos is still the best medication for your bones.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@gently I agree. The rheumatologist advised that should consider request. The only way I would use class is if it followed the course of Tymlos down the road and then I’m not sure I would try it. Like many of the other meds, it has its own side effects and an annual infusion means those side effects may stay with you for a long period of time.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@willowmena oops. Premature send without spellcheck. My comment was the only way I would use Reclast…
@gently forgot to spellcheck. Should read: “the only way I would use Reclast…”
@willowmena, most of these tiny errors don't slow the reader for one millisecond. All my posts need the grace.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsHave you gotten any further with your formal treatment plan for treating your osteoporosis? I have an upcoming annual appointment with my PCP and would like her to propose a treatment plan to slow the progression of osteoporosis with me. My two notable 'incidents" are a slip from a ladder in early 2023 that resulted in a triple fracture of my pelvis plus at the same time degenerative changes to my vertebrae (two sets are bone on bone, three others have bulging discs). I also have degenerative osteoporosis of my right hip, making it bone on bone, but oddly enough currently pain free. The orthopedist will not replace it unless I have chronic pain with it. I am not familiar with the various treatments for osteoporosis, and I do not know if my PCP will be the doctor to drive the remedies or it will be my endocrinologist. What treatments do you have for your osteoporosis? I'm a 78 year old male in fair health who has lost 2 inches in height.