Osteoporosis In The Spine

Hi guys,

Here's an update from my end - I received the results of a bone mass density test that I recently had and it shows that my bone mass density is low in my spine (though my hip is ok).

Basically it works off a standard deviation from a norm... -1 or above is normal bone mass density, -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia and anything less than -2.5 shows osteoperosis.
My hip was -.08 and so is in the normal range but unfortunately my spine was -3.2 and hence shows oseoporosis.

I have been trying to do some research on the internet as I wait for a specialists appointment to come through the post and it seems to be quite rare in younger women and there doesn't seem to be a lot around. I think and am hoping it can be reversed, at least to a certain extent by specific exercises (weight bearing exercises I have seen suggested...apparently cycling is good for the bone density which is good news!) and watching my diet. My personal trainer Laura has been absolutely fantastic. It was quite a shock when I was first told but she has been great, taking the situation under control, being very positive and advising me on certain things.


So how did this happen?
Although nothing is certain it seems to be the affect of the depo-provera injection that I have been on since I was 16years old. Although this is a contraceptive, it had a dual purpose as it stopped my periods and controlled my hormones. This in turn helped to control my seizures (often seizures are linked to hormones)...my neurologist even advised me to stay on it and wrote a letter explaining that I needed it when I left the country for a few months! Hence it is related to the contolling of my epilepsy. I will obviously have to come off this now which may affect my seizures, but hopefully as I am on anticonvulsants it will all be fine!

Weird timing but just a couple of weeks ago I saw that Epilepsy Action are currently undergoing research into osteoporosis and anticonvulsants! It is another example of how Epilepsy Action are a great source of information and support with relevant research. Also another example of how just because your seizures are controlled, doesn't mean you are fine with your epilepsy!

Also makes me even more determined to do this bike ride as you never know what may happen next...now is the time for me to take advantage! :-)

If anyone has any information on what I have described or if you are more interested in details from me then just give me an email or make a comment.


Thanks guys!! :-)