Osteopenia Success Stories

Osteopenia success stories are important. We are often energized by reading what others have done. And that is the whole purpose of the page of the web site. It is a place for joyful bragging!

Here are some testimonials from our readers. Some have improved their balance (one of the best ways to reduce fracture risk ). Others have improved bone density and others are just celebrating all that they have learned about bone loss and Osteopenia or Osteoporosis.

Those whose Osteopenia success is improved bone density list their test results so you can actually see their improvement.

I invite you to use the form at the end of the page to submit your Osteopenia Success story or testimonial.

Kate

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Osteopenia success; Improved balance to prevent fractures

"I took a Tai Chi course and after only seven weeks of class and practicing almost daily my balance is noticeably better. I can stand on one foot to pull on socks and underwear and I am not wobbling and tipping over! "

Submitted by: Virginia B.

Osteopenia success - normal dexa scan

I just got back the DEXA report for my bone density scan done June 25, 2007 and am very happy with the results. I am a 72 year old white male, first diagnosed with osteopenia in late 2004. I have the typical build for an osteopenia candidate, at 6' 2" in height and 155 pounds. Here are the test results:

a) Lumbar spine T-score of -0.4 (versus a reading of -1.1 in May 2005). BMD level of 1.043 g/cm2 (versus 0.971 two years ago). b) Left hip (total) T-score of -1.0 (versus a reading of -1.3 in May 2005). BMD level of 0.876 g/cm2 (versus 0.837 two years ago). c) Left forearm T-score of -1.2 (versus a reading of -1.7 in May 2005). BMD level of 0.612 g/cm2 (versus 0.590 two years ago). Based on the WHO classification, my condition is now rated as 'normal' for both the lumbar spine and hip. The forearm results are still in the osteopenia range, but have shown modest improvement in the last two years.

You most certainly may post my email on the Success Page and use it in your book, as well. I appreciate your only using my initials but feel free to refer to my location in NC. I know from your earlier post that you also have achieved success in rebuilding bone density and moving back into the 'normal' segment of the population.

It's a well-documented and proven fact that support groups play an essential role in helping individuals to overcome problems, whether of the body, mind or spirit. Your web site is a superb example of this, since all of us can get information, learn what is working, and hear success stories that strengthen our resolve to join the achievers. And, yes, I do think that hearing of success from the "older and taller" folks is a strong motivator for the younger set. I intend to keep up the exercises and supplements, to ensure no back-sliding!

If I may suggest it, you might want to see if any further research is available about the use of vibrating platforms in stimulating bone density improvement. I personally feel it helps, but have to admit the results are inconclusive. For example, I did not start using the Soloflex vibrating platform until August 2006, so I have a "before" and "after set of data to compare, namely May 2005 to June 2006, and then June 2006 to June 2007:

T-Score 5/05 to 6/06 6/06 to 6/07Lumbar spine no change 60% improvementLeft hip (total) 15% improvement 10% improvementLeft forearm 24% improvement 8% improvement

There was no measurable change for the T-score of the lumbar spine the first year, but a dramatic improvement the second year, when I was using the vibrating platform. But I also increased my weight training the second year, which was probably an important factor as well.

The hip and forearm improvements were more significant the first year (no platform) than the second year (with platform), so that would not say too much in favor of the platform. But perhaps Soloflex would share some of their data with you about bone density tests they have done in connection with their vibrating platform.

My daily supplements include calcium @ 1500mg and vitamin D @ 3000 iu, plus Strontium @ 340mg, but taken several hours apart from the calcium, in line with your advice in one of the newsletters. I exercise six days a week, focusing on aerobics one day and weight training the next, with Sunday off. I do some free weights but mostly use the machines in the gym. I also take a class in Yoga twice a week, but of the 'gentle' type. I have also been using the Soloflex vibrating platform ten minutes a day, when doing my warm-ups, for the past ten months. Tests seem to indicate an improvement in bone density as a result, but no one knows why. My improvement in 07 over 06 was much greater than I achieved in 06 over 05 and I think the vibrating platform was a factor.

My goal has been to rebuild my bone density without having to rely on prescription medicine and so far it's working. I would never have been this far along without the vital input and assistance you provide through your web site. I have learned a tremendous amount about osteopenia and osteoporosis from your site and particularly from your newsletters. It's great positive input. I thank you for all you do to help people like me and recommend your site to anyone I meet who has this condition.

Sincerely,
D. B.

More testimonials

I was diagnosed with osteopenia that's nearly osteoporosis of the spine yesterday and feel reassured that I can fight it - as you have.I'm sure you get hundreds of notes like this, but wanted to add my voice.

Again, many thanks,"B

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And here is more Osteopenia success.....

"I want to thank you for all the help you have given me through your newsletters. I am 55 with 70 degree lumbar scoliosis and 2 years ago was told I was osteopenic.

My dr. tried to get me on Fosomax but I chose not to take that path..choosing instead to do all that I can naturally first.

Through your newsletters I researched both strontium and lactoferrin and chose to take those and also found excellent calcium complex capsules and increased my magnesium. I began climbing stairs daily and doing what exercise I could on any particular day..including dancing, walking when I could and riding my recumbent.

Today my dexa showed that the density in my bad hip had increased 2 points and the lumbar region of my spine stayed the same..osteopenic. My height has remained the same and they told me to continue what I have been doing.

I am thrilled with this news and see that this journey towards healthier bones is possible even for me.

Thank you again...please continue to offer all that you do...both information and tons of hope.

Sincerely,
S

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"Thank you so much for all your time and energy spent on helping us stay healthy!"
Nov. 2007

" I just wanted to say thank you for your great website and excellent research.

As an osteoporosis sufferer the information and support that this brings is invaluable.

I truly appreciate it. Please continue!

All the best for you and your health.
R.S.

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This note is coming all the way from Israel. I just want you to know that your advice and encouragement have made a big difference in my life. One of these days I'll send you my own personal story. For now, I just want you to know that all the work you are doing for so many of us is appreciated and used.May you continue with your research and reports for many happy and healthy years ahead.
M.

what about you? do you have an Osteopenia success story to share?

Submit your Osteopenia success story