jaybo, I too thought my bones were ready to snap after my DEXA results.
After the 2019 DEXA, the GP just told me 'it's fine'. I interpreted that as me being stable. That result showed 'Treatment is advised'. I wonder why I didn't pursue that - presume I thought the diet and exercise I was already doing was 'Treatment'.
There's never been a discussion on the results since 2010. This thread and having this week's scan has made me look at previous results in detail.
Between 2007 and 2019 my T scores lessened by 0.4 for Femur and 0.2 for Spine (so not 'stable').
I went to GP at 43 as my periods stopped and she sent me for a baseline DEXA. I didn't get the results and thought nothing of it.
Two years later I slipped on ice, landed hard on one hand and broke my wrist and the consultant did a DEXA scan - shouldn't have broken a bone falling from my own height. That result showed both scans - both showed osteopenia. The recommendation was DEXA scans every 3/5 years so I always remind GP after 5 years one's due (and ensure I get results - lesson learnt). Recommendations then were - advice on diet, weight bearing exercise and lifestyle factors that enhance bone health, Calcium and Vitamin D. GP recommended a brisk walk every day.
I regret not going on HRT - this was in the 'scare' period I think.
Would I have known I had Osteopenia or be having 5 yearly scans if I hadn't broken a bone?
HellsBells - not as stable as I imagined! I've just turned 60 so the sooner I try HRT again the better.
This has been an interesting, and timely, thread for me though. It's made me re-assess things - already ordered some magnesium, will look at collagen too and read up on boron.
I agree Laszla, I'll look at more weight training. The physio said - bones like a good pounding.
I didn't know the effects of calcium supplements and bisphosphonates so that's interesting.
I noticed Amitriptyline also has bone loss as a side effect. Been prescribed this twice in the last 5 years. Once for tingling, headaches and it didn't work - I'm now sure this was menopause anxiety stuff. The other time it was prescribed by a dermatologist for a burning/sore vulva. Apparently it's 'good at breaking the link' between my brain telling my vulva it's burning (I know! familiar story, - this forum saved me...). That, together with not being able to do the exercise makes me anxious for the latest result.
I've never heard of REMS Echolight scans so that's interesting re bone density/bone strength/BMI.
I'm going to take a positive from your last para HellsBells.
I was 8.2 stone pre-meno. At yesterday's DEXA I had a quick glance at the scale - 62 kg (9.9 stone). Hopefully, meno weight gain and lack of brisk walking will work in my bone density favour.