Finally got to see Dr. who looked at X-ray report has prescribed Actonel (Risedronate Sodium) one/per month tablet. He said that I met the criteria for being allowed this med as I have 2 fractures, plus he saw some crushing of T9 as well. I was expecting to have to have a bone density test to confirm that I have Osteoporosis, but this test wasn't mentioned.

After reading the information sheet in the medication packet I'm in a pickle. This type of medication may cause jaw-bone problems in some people, which include infection and healing problems after extraction or drilling into the bone. I currently have an abscess on my tooth and am due to undergo root canal treatment, which takes a few months to complete usually. After researching on the net I've come to the conclusion that I would probably be a prime candidate for complications, so have decided to not take the medication. I'm upping my calcium intake and adding Vit. D as well as following the weight training programme my physio set up as well as 1/2 hour walking each day. The possibility of having my jaw-bone die due to infection is scary and I don't want to risk yet more problems.

I'm now also wondering if my dental problems of the past few years were actually a sign that calcium was being leached out of my bones and teeth. Perhaps my deteriorating dental health (despite regular dental care and check-ups and dentist saying that it is to be expected in people my age) was a sign I should have picked up on.

Be warned! Start taking Calcium and Vit. D way before reaching 50.