Osteoporosis Update

I finally rescheduled my mammogram and bone density test that I had to cancel on July 5. The mammogram results were normal.  My bone density actually improved in my hips (YAY!), but is worse in my lower spine (DARN)!  I had stopped taking calcium supplements for awhile because it was making my stomach feel yucky, but I started taking them a few weeks ago.  I also need to get serious about exercise.  I bought a groupon for a one-month membership to the Rex Wellness Center and I have a coupon for a free week at Curves. I will try them both, and then decide whether to join one of them or try some other gyms. There are peer-reviewed studies showing that acupuncture works to improve osteoporosis, and my oldest sister does that in addition to walking almost daily.  My sister's insurance company covers acupuncture, so I was hopeful that it would be covered under my policy, but it is not.  I hope it's not cost prohibitive, because I want to do acupuncture rather than medication.  The latest research on osteo meds show that bone density increases, but there is not a correlating decrease in breaks. Even worse, one of the side effects of long term use is deterioration of the jaw bone. So even if my endocrinologist tells me it's time to start meds, I disagree. I am going to try to improve my numbers with exercise and acupuncture first.  There is an integrative medical facility down the street from my office in Raleigh, so I couldn't ask for a more convenient location for acupuncture.