I keep hearing more about this. Have any of you had this done? My mom had osteo and I think it might be time for me to do so. Thoughts?

Dotsie I JUST TODAY got the results from my doctor of my first bone density test. Fortunately there were no areas of concern indicated (that's HIS language!!). It's an EASY EASY test and you don't even have to change out of your clothes and wear one of those gowns that lets things peek out that shouldn't be peeking out (haha). You lie on a very comfortable table with your knees propped up on a cushion while an x-ray machine (low dose) is guided over your torso. Then they do a further study on one hip (doesn't matter which one).

The information is put together with your "vital statistics" (height/weight) and goes into a huge database which compares your info to women of your same age/height/weight and if the x-rays show your bones to be thinner than comparative studies on others, then your doctor would discuss "what's next", i.e., supplements or medication to address osteo problems.

It took all of about 10 minutes and the only stressful moment for ME was when I was told by the nurse that I am no longer 5'7" - I have "shrunk" an inch!!!! I was assured that was totally normal for someone my age but it was kind of strange to hear...oh well...nothing stays the same as the years march onward.

If you have a family history, probably wouldn't hurt to ask your doc to send you for a test.

My Mom has pretty bad osteoporosis. I've been tested regularly and have mild osteopenia, which means below normal but not as bad as osteoporosis. I'm due for my yearly bone density test this month. (It's on my chore list!) Bone loss is one of the possible side effects of my meds.

I'm scheduled for a bone density test this summer (earliest I could get in). My Dr. wants one because of the fact I don't drink milk and I was complaining of aching legs. So I'm trying to be good about taking a calcium supplement The bone density test is to check things out and establish a "base line" for later....

Have read extensively on this subject for an article I did and it seems that few robust women, women that have always had more than their share of meat on their bones have bone density problems. Skinny women seem to be the ones most often affected. Guess being a bit of a plumper wasn't all bad in those earlier days...Most of us heavier girls ate well, cheese, milk things that built our bones...

Chatty, that was the same information I had always come across (us big girls were likely to have fewer bone density problem) However, I got a shock when I did a bone density screening and was found to be well below average. I like milk, I love cheese and yogurt. I take a calcium supplement. Every step I take is a weight bearing exercise! Anyway, the folks doing the screening gave some suggestions (adding magnesium to my supplement) and are planning to do a return performance some time this month. I have been absolutely faithful to my calcium and magnesium so maybe that has helped after about 6 weeks... If not, to the Doc I go! No broken hip for me, if I can help it!

The scan is a breeze! I was happy to know my skeleton was not falling apart...yet!

I believe a lot has to do with heredity. I'm at a time in my life where Mom's past health issues are staring me in the face. I wish she was still around to talk with.

I think everyone should have a bone density test ... it's easy to do and gives your doctor so much information.. especially for those who have osteo. running in the family. Like it was said earlier, it gives a great baseline for comparison later in life.

There's so much technology that we have now that we didn't have even 20 or 30 years ago. It can help catch the early symptoms ... something our parents and grandparents didn't have... we need to take advantage of all the technology that we can.. it can only mean better health for us.. longer. And, speaking of better health, are you taking your calcium supplements?

[ January 08, 2005, 10:36 AM: Message edited by: Vicki M. Taylor ]

I tried to take a calcium supplement, but like every other type of supplement or vitamin I have tried to take it makes me extremely constipated. I don't understand that side-effect. I have tried all different kinds and seems to make no difference. I was planning to discuss this with a doctor in April when I am due for my annual check-up. First, I have to locate one in my new area that takes my insurance. Guess I better get started. My mom died at a younger age than I am now, so I really have no point of reference. As far as I am aware my Grandmother had no problems in that area.