osteopenia

[troubledog1]

I have been in meopause since I was 39..i have not had a period in nearly 2 years..i had no symptoms except maybe a couple of hot flashes.but i now have osteopenia.my question is does this get worse? i have it worse in my right hip and in my back..when i walk i have alot of pain in my hip and i end up limping if i walk far..i'm wondering if this could be the osteoporosis? and I also have alot of pain in my upper back.also wondering if this could be from the same thing
thanks if you can give me any info on this

[troubledog1]

thanks for the advice,they want to do another bone density test soon.my doctor shot cortisone in my hip and it has helped some.they are talking about putting me on some of the newer drugs that help to rebuild your bones,but i guess they have alot of side affects.I live in long beach Washington state..nobody here get's enough vitamin D,they say we are all probably deficient because we don't get enough sunlight.and also i live in a small beach town.out here on the penninsula there are not alot of doctors..mostly PA'S . I had to move here because i have so many medical problems i can't afford to live in seattle anymore because I am on goverment assistance unable to work.I do get to go see the Ortho doc next week,i believe he is the only M.D out here so hopefully he can help me more.again thanks for you advice,i will keep you updated..is your mom on the newer drugs they have? if so does she have side affects from them?

[hopeshell]

You should follow up with bone density scans and visits with your dr.  Yes, it get worse.  My mom went from osteopenia to full blown osteoporosis in one year as confirmed on a scan.  Be sure to take the right amount of calcium, vit.d and get some sunshine too.  Also, walking and light weight lifting are said to help.  Sodas are known to deplete calcium levels so it may be wise to not drink soda.  You should really see your dr. about the pain because you could be having tiny fractures without knowing it.  You may be a good candidate for the newer drugs that build bone.  My mom who has dx severe osteoporosis complains of pains just like you are describing.