What Is The Purpose of Bone Mineral Density Testing?
You probably don’t think about your bones that often—that is, until you break one. As we get older, our bones grow weaker and lose bone density. We become at greater risk for serious falls, injuries, and osteoporosis. That’s why bone mineral density tests are an important part of your routine health exams.
What Is A Bone Mineral Density Test?
A bone mineral density test is a measure of the amount of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, contained in a certain volume of bone. Bone mineral density measurements are used to diagnose osteoporosis and predict the risk of a serious break. Osteoporosis is a silent condition, meaning there are no obvious felt symptoms, so the only way to tell if you have it is by getting tested. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, regular bone mineral density tests will monitor the progress of treatment.
Understanding Your Bone Mineral Density Results
The results of your bone mineral density test will have a T score, which compares your bone density with a healthy, young adult of the same gender. Your score will indicate if you fall in the normal or below average range. A T-score of -1 and above is normal, -1 to -2.5 is low, and -2.5 and above indicates osteoporosis.
Who Should Get Tested?
Your doctor may recommend a bone mineral density if you:
- Are aged 65 or older.
- Have a low body weight.
- Have had one or more fractures after the age of 50.
- Have lost more than 1.5 inches of your adult height.
- Your posture has gotten more hunched.
- You’re having back pain without any cause.
- You’re taking prescription drugs that can cause bone loss.
- Have a family history of osteoporosis.
Schedule A DEXA Scan With Us Today!
Don’t wait until you suffer a serious injury to assess your risk for osteoporosis. Take action to support your bone health and schedule a DEXA scan.
