I have had RSD for a long time and was just recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. I believe that there is a definite connection between RSD and osteoporosis. My primary care doctor wants to put me on a biphosphate drug, but I really do not want to take it due to possible side effects and the fact that it doesn't build bone.

So I am researching ways to help build bone by more natural methods. I already supplement with calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, boron, omega 3 fatty acids, curcumin, vitamin C, as well as a multi-vitamin and mineral.

I am thin and my diet is probably lacking in protein. I have read that whey protein (20 grams) could possibly help with bone health. Does anyone use whey protein? What brands would you suggest that taste okay and are of high quality? What should I be looking for in trying to find a quality product?

Any suggestions as to what else might help my bone health? I don't want to fracture! Thank you!

Hi, I have a friend on another health group who does not want to take the drugs also, I don't blame her, I would not, ...so she does not...She takes higher amounts of magnesium thru the day and other bone supports but also uses Strontium Citrate...I use SC off and on, and am out of it now. Do some research on SC and there is a long magnesium thread going on the vit/supp area I think. I've added info to that old thread recently.

I've used whey protein over the years but not for bone building specifically. I am not thin and do like my meats, but don't overdose.

Hi Brightcloud,

I certainly would not recommend anyone take meds who isn't interested. This is a viewpoint I understand and respect. But....there are some decent studies about CRPS bone pain responding to alendronate (Fosamax), it is an oral biphoshpinate so wouldn't require expensive infusions or stick around in your system for a long time. Just a thought if you need it at some point.

Brightcloud, I was looking for your post...anyway, I just posted in the Arthritis section a link from Dr. David Williams and it's about joint supports and he talks about Whey Protein.

The title of post is Niacinimide and Arthritis.

I took Actonel, a product similar to Fosamax, for about a year and had to quit because of several side effects. Users of Fosamax have also experienced side effects, some of them severe: http://www.drugwatch.com/fosamax/side-effects/

Thanks caroline2, Littlepaw, and Auntie Audrey for your replies.

Caroline2, I did find the info. you mentioned in the arthritis section.

Auntie Audrey, appreciated the links you provided. I will check them out. Possible side effects are a major reason that I am very hesitant to take Fosamax and the other bi-phosphates. It is my understanding that they can remain in the body for ten years as well as cause atypical fractures and even necrosis of the jaw. I realize the latter is very rare, but it does happen. I sincerely hope you were able to overcome the side effects from the Actonel and find other ways to help your bone loss.

Like your Judi Dench character's quote. "As Time Goes By" is one of my favorite shows.

Questions: I was told had bone loss not sure if it's the start of osteoporosis. Anywho I've heard many (my mother in law included) that don't want to take the med. Here is my question, I heard starting magnesium supplements is a good thing however I read it interacts with gabapentin. With a lot of Crps people on this med and hearing crps causes loss in bone density is it really unsafe to take both?

Ask a pharmacist about the possible interaction. That's what I would do. Or see if Dr. Google can tell you.

Hi Jenni, magnesium may interfere with the absorption of gabapentin: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-21.../intrtype-drug

Hi Brightcloud, yes my side effects from Actonel went away shortly after stopping the medication. Thanks for asking.

After taking Actonel, I switched to strontium citrate as delivered in a product called Strontium Bone Maker by Doctor’s Best: http://www.iherb.com/Doctor-s-Best-S...2&sr=null&ic=2
Fortunately I’ve had a very good experience with it and have been taking it for many years.

Judi Dench is one of my favorites. Now that I’m having troubles walking, I spend more time at home, and I have the complete series of “As Time Goes By” on dvd from BBC. I also like her as M in the James Bond movies!