Diagnosing Osteoporosis: Bone Densitometry (Bone Mineral Test)

Bone density is measured to assess the risk of developing osteoporosis. It is measured by DXA. DXA gives accurate results. Bone Mineral Density is calculated and compared to normal values to assess the risk factors.Checking bone density from time-to-time can help to prevent the risk of osteoporosis. Being aware of the bone density can help to take right measures in order to prevent bones from becoming weaker and eventually leading to the development of osteoporosis. Bone density can checked using DXA. Let us take an in-depth look at what is bone densitometry and how is osteoporosis diagnosed. In this articleWhat is bone densitometry?How does the bone densitometry work?How is it performed?Is any special preparation required before taking the test?When to get bone density measured?Pain and Aches in Bones and MusclesBrittle NailsOther SymptomsWhat is bone densitometry?Bone densitometry, using an advanced technology called DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorption), is a procedure that accurately and painlessly measures bone density and the mineral content of bone. This helps in determining a womans risk of developing osteoporosis.How does the bone densitometry work?Most common examination sites are the fracture-prone hip, spine and sometimes the forearm. Evaluation also includes measurement of height and weight, a thorough and risk assessment. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) is calculated and compared to normal BMD values, matched for age and sex to confirm or rule out osteoporosis. A low BMD by DXA may predict the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and can help determine a treatment plan.How is it performed?During a comprehensive bone evaluation with DXA, the patient lies comfortably still on a padded table while the DXA unit scans one or more areas, usually the fracture-prone spine or the hip. Unlike typical x-ray machines, radiation exposure during bone densitometry is extremely low - less than the radiation exposure during a coast-to-coast airline flight. The entire process takes only minutes to complete, depending on the number of sites scanned. It involves no injections or invasive procedures, and the patient remains fully clothed.Is any special preparation required before taking the test?Unless instructed otherwise by the clinician, eat normally on the day of the exam; but avoid taking any calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to the appointment.Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Sweat suits and other casual attire without zippers, buttons, grommets or any other metal are preferred.You should not have had a barium study, radioisotope injection, oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to your DXA test.When to get bone density measured?Let us take a look at the symptoms of poor bone density. Keeping a check on these early signs and symptoms can help you to prevent osteoporosis to a greater extent. When these signs are observed, one must get bone density checked and follow appropriate treatment measures.Pain and Aches in Bones and MusclesMuscle aches and pains is one of the indicators of poor bone density. Individuals with low bone density may experience pain, especially at night. The pain is caused due to drop in magnesium, calcium and potassium levels in blood at night as food is not consumed at this time. Brittle Nails Brittle and weak nails are one of the signs of poor bone density. Although, brittle nails signify low bone density, there are some other factors that may also be responsible for the same. For example, doing gardening work, contact of nails with harsh chemical substances, certain household chores, doing water related chores for longer time etc; can cause brittleness in nails. So, these factors should not be overlooked.Other SymptomsThere are also other symptoms that can indicate poor bone density. Such symptoms include gums moving backwards due to loss of bone mass in jaws which signify that overall bone density is reducing. Reduced grip and balance and drop in the fitness levels also indicate loss of bone density.The above mentioned signs are the early indicators that the bones have started losing their density. Therefore, if these signs are observed, one must get the bone density checked and follow the advice of the doctor in order to prevent osteoporosis.