Possibly have Osteoporosis

Posted , 4 users are following.

I have had back pain since just this side of Christmas.  Thought it would go away but eventually saw my GP.  Numerous blood tests and a kidney scan all being normal, he decided have an Xray which found a fracture.  I have no knowledge of doing anything to cause it, hence I am now awaiting a DXA scan.  The back pain is not as sharp as it was, more a dull ache round my waist but sometimes I feel achey everywhere, although this may be psychological because I am worried.  I have a disabled husband who needs quite a lot of help so I am hoping that if it is OP then I can find something to help with the pain. I have joined this group to try and find out more abut the condition I might have.  Forewarned is forearmed confused

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Jean, and "Welcome"!  Please Google Osteoporosis.  OP doesn't 'hurt' unless you have broken something.

    Could it be Osteoarthritis, or even the beginning of Rheumatoid Arthritis?  You will, of course, see clearer when you have had your Dexa scan.  If you have any questions then there is always someone on this site who you will be able to 'talk' to.

    Good luck, and keep us posted.

    Regards from Constance.💐

     

    • Posted

      Thanks for the response Constance I will wait and see what the Dexa scan reveals.  I am already very pleased to have found this forum.
  • Posted

    Hi Jean. I have fractured 2 vertebra and the lumbar fracture, feels like I am wearing a lead belt. It is now 2 years since I lifted something too heavy and I am always aware of the ache and sometimes a lot of pain, but it does not stop me doing anything. In both cases, the fractures were undiagnosed, but eventually OP was discovered. My GP was very surprised as I am very active and eat all the right things. Constance is correct. Find out as much as you can and keep an open mind. Don't believe everything you hear, or read. I have found the Mayo clinic, very unbiased and informative. Let us know how you get on with your scan. Goid luck and best wishes
    • Posted

      Thank you for your advice alison.  Can I ask, when your fractures happened were you aware of a problem because I certainly wasn't so it was a shock when I got the diagnosis. 
    • Posted

      Of course. The first, was aged 47. A throxaic vertebrae. Was running down the stairs in my socks. Ironically, to the gym in my basement. I slipped on the carpet and hit my back on the stair at bra strap level. The second, 2 years ago, when I lifted or should I say tried to lift something, too heavy, and at an angle. Like you, they were not picked up and I was told to go back to running after 2 weeks. I am now 61. I refused a scan after the first because although the GP mentioned OP, I was certain I couldnt have it. No family history. Menapause at 57 yes, 57. Dont smoke, drink very little, dont like fizzy juice, have always exercised, my weight has not changed since I was 21 and love calcium enriched foods. My mum had MS, and I lifted her regularly from one chair to another. Plenty impact to my spine in the past. So, shock, you are not joking. When I had my scan and It was confirmed, I could not believe it. Happy to answer anything you ask.
  • Posted

    So sorry Jean, that is a lot to worry about. I am lucky as my husband is strong and able to help me so I feel for you.

    Try not to worry as that affects your health including your back. I know it is easier said than done.

    Maybe take some vitamins such as K2, magnesium, Vitamin D3, and eat well including fresh fruit and vegetables. You will feel you have some control and doing something positive while you wait for your Dexa scan results.

    Do your own research so you are well informed. 

    Get some help if you need it. In Australia, we have many avenues for support and assistance.

    For example, the local council provides a cleaner at a nominal fee which we use.

    I hope you have family and friends too for support. 

    I wish you well and hope your Dexa scan results are okay.

    • Posted

      Thanks for your response Kathleen I will keep reading.  I can get some help if I need it and have already arranged for someone to do the gardening for me.  I am 71 next month so need to look after myself if I am to look aftr my husband.

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