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Multiple vertebral fractures

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anxiousgran Mon 28-Jun-21 11:27:19

I expect this has been discussed before, so please bear with me.

Long story short, I had a back x-ray recently which showed multiple vertebral wedge fractures, at least 4.

I have had DEXA scans in the past after a mastectomy, which showed osteopenia, but only my hips were ever scanned, apparently because I couldn’t lie flat enough, so I stopped going as it didn’t seem worth it.

I read an article on the radiological aspect of these fractures which promoted full examination and follow-up, but most other sites seem to suggest just treatment with alendronic acid or similar, and no specialist orthopaedic intervention..

What has been other gners experience? I’d like to at least have some sort of investigation to see if I have osteoporosis or not.

My GP has written to the orthopaedic department of our local hospital for advice, as she isn’t sure how to proceed.

I am fearful that I won’t get the the treatment I would have had without the Covid situation. I am very worried, I must say.

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Izabella Tue 29-Jun-21 09:18:50

Ouch!!

I am aware of this from my working days

theros.org.uk/

There should be a section on osteopaenia and there is a good support helpline. Hope the link works

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anxiousgran Tue 29-Jun-21 16:02:22

Thanks so much for replying Izabella.
I have got the link and read it. It is very helpful, and the best information I’ve had so far.
I may try the helpline as well. smile

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trisher Tue 29-Jun-21 17:03:53

anxiousgran my mother had multiple back fractures because of osteoporosis. She did find sitting for long periods difficult especially in hard upright chairs. You should be able to get a scan straight away in spite of covid. If your GP has written to the right department - in our hospital it is the musculo-skeletal dept.-you could try giving them a ring and saying you are willing to go anytime and would accept a cancellation.
There are exercises which help and Tai-Chi is really good.
Because my mother had a problem I was scanned quite early and have managed to improve my bone density so I no longer need the drugs and just take calcium and Vit d and exercise regularly.
My mother lived to be 94 by the way. She was in pain sometimes and because she forgot her medicine in later years she had implants every 3 months. She was still fairly fit and walked with the help of a walker and lived independently until her last fall
I'd say pester your GP to get you seen asap by an osteoporosis specialist. Then take the drugs and do the exercises. You will manage to live along and active life if you persevere.
My mother lost about 4 inches in height because of the fractures which annoyed her a bit. She liked being taller than me

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