The Story

Diane was developing physical findings consistent with her age: some joint narrowing with ‘extra’ bone growth at the edges (caused by the bones touching each other) and also loss of bone density that was more than it should be for a woman her age (osteopenia).

 

LINKS
The Arthritis Society
Osteoporosis Canada

Diane is ‘almost’ 58 years old and has been generally active, though not overly athletic throughout her lifetime.

Working full-time as a hospital-based health professional has kept her ‘on the go’ but in addition, she usually walks daily, swims and goes through ‘stages’ where she works out at a community fitness club.

Low back pain has been an issue for years, but Diane has always been able to manage her symptoms with over the counter analgesics and her ‘exercises’.

For the last 2 years, Diane has had more concerns about her back pain. Although she has only missed the occasional day of work, she is finding it more difficult to adhere to her exercise routine because ‘she hurts’. At times, Diane cannot find a comfortable sleeping or resting position.

A visit to Darien at The Downtown Clinic suggested that Diane speak to her family doctor about low back and hip x-rays. Given that Diane was also post-menopausal for more than 5 years, it was also suggested that she have a bone density test.

Results of the low back x-rays confirmed mild lumbar degenerative disc disease with some ‘osteophyte’ formation at the lumbar 4-5 level on the right. Her bone density test suggested ‘osteopenia’.

Darien and Diane discussed the implications of the test results. Diane was developing physical findings consistent with her age: some joint narrowing with ‘extra’ bone growth at the edges (caused by the bones touching each other) and also loss of bone density that was more than it should be for a woman her age (osteopenia).

Consultation with Diane’s family physician put her on a stronger anti-inflammatory drug for a few weeks. Diane also started taking calcium supplements with Vitamin D. (Post menopausal women need 1500 mg calcium and 800 U.I. Vitamin D daily)

Physiotherapy management included general discussion about ‘posture’, and maintaining ‘good biomechanics’.
Darien also worked with Diane to develop a weight bearing (strength training) exercise routine (to protect her bones). It was also suggested that Diane attend deep water exercise classes to relieve some of the discomfort in the low back (no bouncing on the joints).

Diane is now exercising regularly again - because she feels better! Her exercise schedule alternates between a stretching and strengthening program, cardio fitness and aquatic exercises thereby allowing her to manage any nuisance symptoms. Although she has her prescription for anti-inflammatories handy, she has not had to renew.

Diane will have another bone density test in about a year to check on the status of her bones. Should bone density measurements not improve, other medical management may be suggested by her physician.