Originally Posted by
blueride2
Interesting...abuse of steroids would certainly lead to bone loss. Hopefully cycling 3-4 times a week doesn't negatively effect bone density.
Nope. Glucocortocoids cause osteoporosis. Cyclists would probably be abusing testosterone and other anabolic steroids, which should hypothetically increase BMD. Corticosteroids are catabolic steroids and indeed may lead to osteoporosis but these are not PED's.
Apparently there is some literature (limited, albeit) that only cycling can put one at risk for osteoporosis, the best strategy is to add weight bearing exercises (weight lifting, running, walking, etc.) to your regimen.
btw I agree that OP's symptoms (shin splints?) are not related to low bone mass. Osteoporosis generally has no symptoms until you break something.