Recently diagnosed with osteoporosis and I am terrified

Every new life-altering diagnosis can create fear - you are not alone!

Have you seen an endocrinologist or rheumatologist yet to discuss treatment options? Some of the newer drugs can absolutely help you build bone back, and take a step back from severe disease. Please consider taking one if offered. Yes, there can be side effects, but the known side effects of not treating, especially in a severe stage, are more dire. Think of it as a risk-benefit analysis.

In the mean time, know that people can live many productive years in spite of osteoporosis, and talk to someone qualified (NOT "Dr Google" or AI) about positive steps you can take.

Also, perhaps you can talk to a counselor about overcoming your fear and dark thoughts?

Get on your computer and research a product called AlgaeCal Calcium. You can reverse Osteoporosis!

drTerri, it is terrifying our bones just dissolving. But don't be terrified; there are two excellent medications. i can tell you that the one I'm taking, Forteo, makes me feel completely safe. We lose bone as estrogen levels decline. At 62 I'd lost most of the bone a person normally loses from estrogen loss. The loss of estrogen continues and our bones will continue to weaken without intervention. HRT can help stem the loss, but can't regain the already lost bone.
If you'd like to reveal your dexa numbers at each location, I'm happy to guess if another medication would be more helpful for you.
Fear can be quite helpful if it makes you careful with physical activity to avoid falling, twisting and lifting, and importantly if it encourages to get on medication as soon as you can. When is your next appointment. Are you scheduled with an endocrinologist?

I understand the fear and careful movement. I have severe osteoporosis with risk of fracture. I’m on evenity. Month seven shots this week. I relate to the moving so deliberately. The unnatural movement has caused me to be unbalanced! My Apple Watch tells me I have walked 50 flights of steps most days! ( no way)
I’m 75 yo, work out with a trainer in a group 2 times per week, and walk. This week I am going to get pt to assist with balance. Wasn’t a problem to get the prescription. ( some states no longer require pt prescription.) I’m very active, out and about in community, etc. Hoping that the pt will help with balance and make me feel more confident.
Best to all on this journey.

@sueinmn thank you so much for your helpful reply!
I am under the care of an endocrinologist and I will be starting Evenity in December.
I am also starting mental health counseling in a couple weeks, with a practitioner who specializes in the challenges of aging. I'm looking forward to that!

@gently thank you so much for your reply!
I am starting Evenity in December, as prescribed by my endocrinologist.

@barbyb50 Thank you so much for the encouragement! I really need to read things like this to keep me from feeling so alone and afraid.
Does your trainer specialize in working with people with osteoporosis?
I have been an avid runner for many years and have run several marathons, countless half marathons, 10s and 5k races. I have a shelf full of medals. Now I'm afraid to even walk 😀 It's confusing because some people say it's OK to continue running and others say it increases the risk of stress fractures, so walking is the exercise of choice. I've been walking and that's been going OK.
I live in a northern climate (Minnesota) and the thought of trying to navigate through life on snow- and ice-covered sidewalks is terrifying. It's going to be an extra long winter.
Thanks again! Your response was very helpful!

You said you were diagnosed with "severe osteoporosis". There are degrees of severity and all are not at the level of being afraid to move. I would suggest taking a deep breath and not panicking. Have you had any broken bones? Could the DEXA be in error?

@drterri,
you'll add bone density quickly with Evenity. Has your endocrinologist made suggestions on the follow up drug. Evenity is usually one year.
best wishes for your bones

@drterri

Glad you are here getting support. I see that you are very concerned about movement and safety in movement. There is a site that has been very helpful in my bone journey. Melioguide.com

I completed 1 year of Evenity last year and my results were great. You'll need to talk to your doc about a plan for sequencing Osteoporosis meds. For instance, once you've completed Evenity what follow to help lock in your gains. But that is down the road. In the meantime this is a great place to learn about others experiences and decisions. Also, consider checking out Keith McCormick's book Great Bones. Many have found it extremely helpful
We are all in this together.