Has anyone treated their osteoporosis without drugs?

@gigi4 Great to know! When I told my endocrinologist I wasn’t going to take meds, but was going to take the natural route for a year then do a DEXA scan, I think she was tying to “scare me” off my plan. She said, you know insurance won’t cover a DEXA next year and it’s very expensive!! I would rather pay and find out whether my efforts are successful or not in a year instead of waiting for 2 years!! I will call my insurance and get the price.

I didn’t read through all the threads, so if anyone has mentioned this, I apologize. I read somewhere that DEXA scans are not always accurate in small framed or fine boned people. Yes, a -3.8 is very concerning but maybe it isn’t as bad as it looks? Especially if you have great bone quality which you can find out using a TBS test.

I am going to add pictures of some findings about DEXA and fine boned frames and it has citations. This information might add some other information for you to digest.

To answer your original question, I have read that many people have slowed down or reversed their osteoporosis through natural methods by eating the proper diet, doing high impact resistance training (read up on the LIFTMOOR/Onero types exercise). Also read up on Dr Loren Fishman’s 12 yoga poses.

I find Dr Doug Lucas to be very educational about using natural ways to help with OP. He is on YouTube

Here I am at 75 going on 76. Diagnosed osteopenia and then osteoporosis over 20 years ago. Refused medication because of the unacceptable and serious side effects. Decision seconded and evidenced for me by dental offices always asking about use of these medications. Fell or tripped with soft tissue injuries a few times over the years most recently fainted in the shower, “ouch” (no more steamy but enjoyable showers for me, I’m following cardiologist advice). So far not a single broken bone, thank heavens. I take vitamin D 3 in the fall, winter and early spring season and eat healthy, low fat cheese, yogurt, cottage etc. No red meats but chicken, fish, vegetables, nuts, dried fruit and even dessert. Try to stay away from ultra processed foods but processed ok and use organic when available. Think my body after menopause just naturally slowed down on it’s loss of bone integrity. This doesn’t mean to say I don’t have osteoporosis as I lost an inch or two but I don’t think it got worse and hasn’t caused any broken bones so far. Weight and height falls within an average range. Try to keep active. Friend of mine 79 years old very poor Dexta score also same decision, and no broken bones. I think it’s a matter of the risk. Percentage of woman with osteoporosis suffering from broken bone or suffering from medication side effects and the quality of everyday life. Until we get better treatment options decision remains an individual and personal choice. Wish it were different, better medication would be an answer to this dilemma.

@dougajoi There is better medication. Tymlos and Forteo work well with generally no dangerous side effects. They weren't available to you 20 years ago, though.

@gravity3 also, i check on some of the other boards here in Mayo, and have found good info. It is a terrific source for so many of us.

@nycmusic
I agree!!

@njx58 Wondering if insurance will contribute to the cost. Definitely going to research those meds out. Thank you so much for the info and update.