Shrinking due to osteoporosis

I hear you! After my compression fractures, I am significantly shorter and don't recognize my shape in the mirror. Ir's like a mudslide! My waist has disappeared and none of my pants fit. Even though I've not gained an ounce, I look twenty pounds heavier. My doctor didn't know if organs actually shift around, but he did say muscles might be impacted, having to work in altered ways.

And here's wags, asking the real questions! Good on you.

I'm having the same problems, but much younger. I have significant degenerative disc disease at 56, most likely because I have hyperparathyroidism. I don't absorb nutrients well, particularly calcium.

I'm trying to lose weight and thinking maybe yoga or pilates to work on my core and posture?

It's discouraging, though.

Good question…ideas are welcome.

@larak. Understand your concerns, I am now 70 and was diagnosed with DDD at age 69 with a lumbar spine and degenerative scoliosis. I probably had the DDD much younger, but did not seek orthopedic care until I had unrelentingly back pain from scoliosis. Good news is I participated in PT program and now participate in yoga, core and balance classes 2-3 times a week. I also bike ride 2 times a week and swim in summer. I feel much better due to daily exercise and also started taking calcium with Vit D and K2, daily. I am hoping my DDD does not progress to osteoporosis, so my focus is on nutrition and exercise for now. I also take a daily supplement called Algecal with Fortibone and Fortigel that I feel has helped my flexibility and reduced my pain. I don’t think there is one magic bullet for anyone, it takes a lot of work and research into what will work for you. Connect has a lot of good information, and always consult your doctors with questions you have. Good Luck!

@sharonba That's the second time I've heard Algecal mentioned. Citrical isn't working, so I'll look into that.

I have scoliosis, too, but I'm not sure whether that is playing a part in my shrinkage.

@callmekate

Your post made me laugh out. Can totally relate. I have learned not to give a damn about my mudslide.

@callmekate, Your writing style also made me laugh! Why isn't anyone researching this, or where are the articles? I stubbornly want my waist (maybe normal hips, too!) back and my pants to fit. I've otherwise been about the same size for 30 or so years!
@larak, I am hypothyroid, and maybe that also contributes. We must continue with our health regimens to do the best for ourselves!

Shrinking is supposed to be a natural part of aging? I thought. However with osteoporosis it’s also an issue I’ve lost over an inch at age 65. However, I’ve also been measured by different clinics within the last 4 years and they are all different by + or - 1.5”. So not always completely accurate. Recently I was measured taller, by an inch. For example.
Strange

Well I can add that I started this journey at 5'7" and after 13 compression fractures in my spine, I am now 5'4". Add Osteoporosis meds belly fat and compressed belly organs I'm sure, plus the weight gain from the meds. I eat very healthy and exercise daily. The only thing that has really helped me is Tia Chi, because it definitely improves posture and balance and for me, reduces my pain. I finish my second round of Teriparatide in another month and hope to get the weight back down to a more comfortable place. Its hard I know, but a little extra weight (hopefully short term) is far better than breaking.

When we have osteoporosis, the midsection can appear to expand because the spine gradually compresses and curves forward, which shortens the torso and pushes the abdominal area outward - the rib cage moves closer to the pelvis and posture changes make the belly protrude even if body fat has not increased.

The most helpful exercises are those that strengthen the back extensors and support upright posture, such as prone back extensions (lying face down and gently lifting chest), resistance-band rows, wall angels, bird dog, and deadlifts and hip hinges with good form, along with core stabilizing work like planks - these help counter that spinal rounding, maintain height, and keep the abdomen from being pushed forward.