Shrinking - Osteoporosis Message Board

LynnB · 08-25-2003, 07:40 PM

New to the board and have a question. My husband is 55 and is shrinking dramatically(4 inches in 2 years). His skull is too(hats are huge). He has pain in joints and bones.From your knowledge, could this all be related to osteoporosis? He is a smoker. Thanks.

peregrine · 08-26-2003, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by LynnB:
New to the board and have a question. My husband is 55 and is shrinking dramatically(4 inches in 2 years). His skull is too(hats are huge). He has pain in joints and bones.From your knowledge, could this all be related to osteoporosis? He is a smoker. Thanks.

Yes.

USAFMOM · 08-27-2003, 05:31 PM

Very possible, but one must also consider degenerative osteoarthritis. I've shrunk 3/4 inch since 1996, 1.5 inches since 1980. My doctor said this may not be due to compression fractures of the spine related to osteoporosis, but possibly degeneration of discs between spinal vertebrae causing loss of height and pain. With his pain, I would definitely consult with an orthopedist, or bone specialist. Hope this helps.

emotion sickness · 08-27-2003, 08:01 PM

He should definitely get a bone density test, like a DEXA scan.

I have shrunk an inch. 19 female with osteoporosis. 4 inches is DRASTIC. He should see a doctor.