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Dexa put me at -3.5 in femoral neck and -3 in lumbar spine.
Had a REMS scan on Friday Fragility and score is 17, based on scan, I have bone quality of a 30 year old. Considering not taking drugs. What are your thoughts?

August 3, 2025
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A MyOsteoTeam Member

Hi Jeanine!
I have similar dexa scores and am also resisting going on medication. I'm doing a lot of heavy weight training, jump training and have increased my protein and calcium vitamin d vitamin K2 and B12 intake. My fears about the medications are many it feels to me like the medical community doesn't have a good plan for treatment beyond a few years on these medications. I'm open to correction from anybody here- but it just seems like an endless treadmill of medications that are not all that effective in preventing fractures.

I'm curious as to where you got the rems test? I have not had one but I would like to know about the quality of my bones not just the density.

I wish you the best of luck in your journey-
Cassandra

August 3, 2025
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Thank you so much Jeanine! I am 57:and just can't wrap my mind around being on the drugs until I die!
I will persue the REMS, and yes, it is totally fracture risk and bone strength, not just density I am looking at.
Thank u for the info!!

August 4, 2025
MyOsteoTeam

Based on your DEXA scan results showing T-scores below -2.5 in both the femoral neck and lumbar spine, you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. While it's understandable to have concerns about medication, these T-scores indicate significant bone loss that typically warrants careful consideration of treatment options. It's Show Full Answer

Based on your DEXA scan results showing T-scores below -2.5 in both the femoral neck and lumbar spine, you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. While it's understandable to have concerns about medication, these T-scores indicate significant bone loss that typically warrants careful consideration of treatment options. It's important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation. While your REMS scan shows good bone quality, your T-scores indicate increased fracture risk that shouldn't be ignored. Consider discussing with your doctor:

• The specific reasons you're hesitant about medication
• Your individual risk factors for fractures
• Alternative or complementary treatment approaches
• The benefits and risks of delaying treatment

Remember that treatment decisions should be made as part of a comprehensive care plan with your healthcare team's guidance.

August 3, 2025
A MyOsteoTeam Member

100%

August 4, 2025
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Thanks Cassandra. Am not convinced the doctors are giving a complete picture of bone health to determine if my bones are healthy. I was astonished to learn that the EU and Japan use REMS over DEXSA and recommend a few minor supplements in lieu of drugs.

My additional research revealed that most fractures are caused by falls, which means people could put more energy into home safety measures or general awareness to be more careful. Personally, I don't pay attention when I walk and I can afford to be more alert, but creating awareness around this topic works better for me than taking a pill.

REMS also provides a fracture risk assessment, which put my risk at a very low 17%.

You can get a REMS scan at any facility that has the equipment. The technology has been around for many years and there is a lot of literature on the the topic. Highly recommend you Google it.

It is not covered by insurance and cost $249.00 in Illinois. I went to Osteostrong in Willmette, IL. They also have a fitness program that builds bone density, but I was only interested in the scan. Sometimes when these centers pop up it can feel like a big scam, but I didn't get that vibe at all.

Happy to answer additional questions. I am a big believer in paying it forward and other people need to know that drugs are not the only option here....I especially don't want to be going on drugs prematurely. I am only 56 years old. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis by Dexsa. and osteopena in REMS.

August 3, 2025

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