Graves anyone got thinning bones ?

Posted , 4 users are following.

I was diagnosed with Graves about 3 years ago, got it under control but now have a lower back issue - hairline fractures on my spine . So thinning bones, osteopathic. 

Just wondered if anyone has the same ?  I think Graves (hyperthyroidism) is considered a risk of osteoporosis 

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Posted

    There was a study about this in India.  I have sent you the link privately through email.  Hyperthyroid patients are known to be very deficient in Vitamin D which is important for bone health.  I was very fortunate that I had volunteered for a research study on something else where they were measuring Vitamin D and I found out through this that I was deficient and now take vitamin D gel cap supplements all the time.  I think all hyperthyroid patients should be checked for this and take it if proven deficient in it (which most of them will be).
    • Posted

      I think so too - that everyone should be checked out - with me I must have been hyperthyroid without even knowing it as no real symptoms ... when we chatted on here about additional supplements for Graves patients, I immediately took vitamin D3.  I’m now to take calcium and having a bone density scan soon.  

      I had recurring back lower back pain in May and June this year, it came and went . Then came back in July and stayed , my condition came to light after an X-ray . 

      Probably have to take bisphosphonates .

      Many thanks for replying Linda and I’ll look out for email 

    • Posted

      Just an add on that I hope people read : 

      Even when euthyroid for 2 years you can still be vitamin D deficient . 

      In view of what I’m going through I think it’s very important when diagnosed with Graves to get the vitamin D blood test - maybe if my Endocrinologist had picked up on it , I wouldn’t have got hairline cracks in my spine which has been pretty painful and it’s going to take a few years of calcium and vitamin D to get my bone density back to normal .. 

  • Posted

    Other than replenishing needed nutrients in order to restore bone density and health, in my opinion, (adequate) exercises of strengthening body muscles can help and support reducing bone and joint burden and stress, hence positively affect and speed up recovering. Hope this help.
    • Posted

      Thanks Mike I was taking vitamin d and other supplements but not calcium more or less at the start of Graves. I was also Nordic walking regularly and going on my crosstrainer every day . Doctor has me on calcium now and I’ll have to take painkillers to exercise as too painful without.  I’ll chat to my physio to see what exercises I can safely do - off for a bone density scan in a couple of weeks and will be taking Bisphosphonates to prevent further damage . 

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