Just got my results from my bone density. I was shocked to hear that i have a t-score of 2.0 in my hips. Dr. said i have thinning bones and wants me to call her to discuss medication. I already take calcium, vit, D, walk and do Yoga. I never thought i would get these results. Anyway, i have been reading about the medications and honestly I don't like what i have read.There are alot of side effects with these drugs. Any suggestions? thanks to all ..Pudge

I am new to this message board.
I found it via a Goggle search.
Pudge, I can't offer any magical solutions, but I do know what you mean.
I was diagnosed ten years ago, way before menopause
and have lost 25% more bone mass since then.
I am really active too. Who would have thunk...
I think my T-scores ten years ago were -2.6 or so.

There are lots of things that you can do to at least help. I was diagnosed last year (past menopause), but have refused to take the drugs. I do not want the side effects and there is still a lot unknown about them. These drugs do not make new bone - they put material around old bone and there is some fear that this might make bones more brittle in years to come. So, I had to decide what to do, which I did after a lot of research.

Working out with weights is very important. There are lots of exercises on the net for osteoporosis exercises. I boight five pound hand and ankle weights and work out three times per week for about half an hour. Also walking is one of the best exercises you can do.

Keep taking calcium, but make sure it contains Vitmain D. Also health food stores carry calcium with lots of other minerals that are needed (Boron) which bones also need.

Look into natural Strontium. Look up strontium citrate in your searches. They are having very good results with this in Europe as a prescription. In America you can only buy it in its natural form as a supplement. I take two to three a day at bedtime. I have talked to others on this board that are doing the same.

Considering drugs? Go to askapatient.com and read what others are saying.

These are hard decisions and it is scary sometimes, but once you start doing things for yourself - researching, working out, taking the added vitamins and minderals, you do begin to feel better about it.

Dor