Understanding Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: A Personal Journey
In our youth, we often take our health for granted, assuming our bodies are invincible and that aging, frailty, and diseases associated with it are far-off concerns. However, for some, early signs of health issues can emerge unexpectedly. I discovered this reality at the age of 27 during a trip to the emergency room for a wrist fracture that led to an unexpected but necessary investigation into my health.
The Unlikely Catalyst: A Trip to the ER
What began as a routine visit due to a simple wrist fracture quickly escalated into a series of probing questions from social workers and police. The inquiry stemmed from my history of over 20 fractures before the age of 30, which raised alarm bells regarding potential domestic violence. It was painful and bewildering to explain the absence of abuse to responders who were simply looking to protect those in need. However, this incident acted as a catalyst for further exploration into my medical history, culminating in a life-altering diagnosis: osteopenia.
The Unseen Challenger: Osteopenia Explained
For many, conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis are whispers of “old lady diseases,” generally overlooked until they strike. As it turned out, I was an anomaly—a young woman facing bone density scores akin to those of someone between 85 and 95 years old. A DEXA scan unveiled startling results: my spine had a T-score of -5.1, while my right femur scored -2.6. These alarming figures underscored a serious health concern and mandated that I approach daily activities with utmost caution.
A Painful Journey to Acceptance: Drug Therapy
Now armed with this diagnosis, I faced the arduous path of treatment. Initially skeptical about the drug therapy recommendations, I held off until I was in my early 50s. By this time, my diagnosis had progressed to full-blown osteoporosis. Embracing treatment led to significant changes, enhancing my bone mass and improving my scores in subsequent DEXA scans: my spine now registering at -3.0, and my femur at -2.4. Progress came at its own pace, yet the reality remained—I would never experience a lifestyle similar to my peers.
Daily Life: Adjustments and Adaptations
Living with osteoporosis signifies continuous adjustments to my lifestyle. Restrictions, such as not lifting over 10 pounds and meticulously navigating my home to prevent falls, are now common practices. To counterbalance my limitations, I have integrated weight-bearing exercises and water aerobics into my daily routine. These activities not only focus on maintaining my bone health but also serve as a vital source of strength and motivation.
Advocacy Through Experience: A Candid Voice
Working at the Black Women’s Health Imperative has provided me with a platform to share my story and advocate for an often overlooked health issue. Under the guidance of Angela F. Ford, PhD, EVP of Chronic Disease Management at BWHI, I joined the Bone Health Coalition and participated in the impactful "40 Faces of Osteoporosis" video series. This opportunity allowed me to communicate that osteoporosis affects not just older women but can impact individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Raising Awareness: The Importance of Bone Health
Through my journey, an essential understanding has emerged: everyone should prioritize their bone health. Regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, early detection is the first step toward effective management. Bone density tests can be crucial in identifying risks and implementing preventative measures.
As Bone Health Awareness Month approaches each May, I urge everyone to be proactive in assessing their bone health. Knowledge is power, and understanding osteoporosis’s reach may one day help someone else avoid the path I traveled.
For more resources and further reading about bone health, visit the Coalition to Strengthen Bone Health at Bone Health Institute.
To see the "40 Faces of Osteoporosis" video series, click here.
In Conclusion
Osteoporosis and its precursor, osteopenia, may be dismissed as mere inconveniences relegated to older generations. However, my experiences illustrate the importance of being informed and proactive about one’s health. These conditions can strike unexpectedly, affecting anyone at any age. So let’s all commit to staying informed, embracing preventive care, and nurturing our bodies today for a healthier tomorrow.
