What You Need to Know About Bone Mineral Densitometry

A bone mineral density test is aimed at measuring calcium and other minerals in bone. It is important to note that bones containing more minerals are denser, so they tend to be stronger and less likely to break. Bones can become less dense as we age or if we develop certain medical conditions.

When too much bone is lost, osteoporosis may develop. This causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. That’s where bone mineral densitometry comes in handy as it helps detect this issue before it is too late.

The most common bone mineral density test is a central dual energy x-ray absorptiometry: DXA or DEXA. DXA makes use of radiation to measure how much calcium and other vital minerals are a in a specific areas of your bone. Considering weak bones break quite easily, DXA usually measures bone mineral density in the hip and spine bones.

Of course, there are other tests aimed at measuring bone mineral density or bone loss. One of the most common tests that are worth your attention is the Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) of the heel. This shows pictures of your bone and can predict your risk of broken bones and osteoporosis. However, it is not used to monitor response to osteoporosis treatment.

Another common treatment that you should look into the peripheral DXA. This usually measures bone mineral density, mostly in the wrist and hell, using a portable device. It is worth mentioning that this test doesn’t offer as much information as is the case with the central DXA. For this reason, it tends to be less accurate. Results showing a higher risk of broken bones or osteoporosis may need to be confirmed with a central DXA test.

That leaves many wondering about the essence of getting a bone mineral density test. Well, research shows that most women over the age of 65 have a bone mineral density test. This screening is also ideal for women of any age who have factors, identified by a health care provider who leverages a formal risk-assessment tool, that raise their chance of osteoporosis.

Either way,  it is essential that you take it upon yourself to understand what the bone mineral density test entails before deciding on the next step of action. In this way, you won’t worry about anything while going for the test.