stephi

I haven't posted in quite awhile but wanted to update people about my
findings and experience. I am 53 (post-menopausal) and was diagnosed with
osteoporosis in my hip and osteopenia in my spine back in Oct.04 (by DEXA
standards) I admit I was shaken and after the initial shock I took action.
Went to the library and read a few current books about this condition. I
also read most of the posts on this sight- which was very helpful. I did some
research on some of the meds that are given but not as much research as
some of the people on this board have done. I guess I knew from the start I
would be seeking alternative approaches to bone health besides taking
medication. I came to the conclusion from all my reading and from my natural
skeptisim- that osteoporosis has attained a certain status that benefits
pharmaceutical companies. Much of this information is revealed in the
Myths of Osteoporosis. However, that is not to say that some people,
because of their personal risk factors, (especially with a fragile
fracture history)may benefit from drug therapy. The first thing my OB-GYN
wanted to do was put me on Fosomax. I said no thanks and asked for a
referral to an osteoporosis research and educational facility instead. At
least there they were willing to do extra lab work (vit. D, calcium,
absorption). I went to see the physician at this facility last week with
some trepidation. As I was filling out the initial forms they give you I
noted that the pen and clipboard were advertisements from drug companies.
When I met with the physician I was certain she was going to
recommend meds and that I was doing myself a disservice by not considering
this option. I gently let her know my philosophy about personal
responsibility with regards to one's health and my suspicious nature of
certain industries (drug companies). I was pleasantly surprised when she
agreed with many of my points and indicated that my current approach (
increasing calcium, vit D, etc., as well as increasing exercise-for me
that includes weight training now) is all I need to do right now since I
do not have any other risk factors for osteoporosis and the DEXA score is
only one factor in determining bone strength.
So to any newly diagnosed person or anyone considering their options-do some reading and be aware that some doctors will want to put you on meds no matter what. Remember YOUR BODY- YOUR DECISION