Bone Density Scans in
South Florida

The BMD is measured with a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry test (referred to as a DXA scan). This test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone. The National Osteoporosis recommends a bone density test of the hip and spine by a central DXA machine to diagnose osteoporosis.

You can find out if you have osteoporosis or if you should be concerned about your bones by getting this test, sometimes known as a bone mass measurement test. It estimates the amount of bone in the hip, spine or other bones. The hip and spine are measured for several reasons. First, people with osteoporosis have a greater chance of fracturing these specific bones. Second, broken bones in the hip and spine can be more dangerous. Bone density in the hip and spine also help to predict the likelihood of breaks in other bones.

A bone density test can tell you if you have normal or low bone density or osteoporosis. The lower your bone density, the greater your risk you will have of breaking a bone. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends a bone density test if:

• You are a woman over 65
• You are a man over 70
• You break a bone after 50

• You are of menopausal age with risk factors
• You are a postmenopausal woman under 65 with risk factors
• You are a man between 50-69 with risk factors

It is important to remember that BMD cannot predict the certainty of developing a fracture. It can only predict risk. It is also important to note that a bone density scan, or test, should not be confused with a bone scan, which is a nuclear medicine test that is used to detect tumors, cancer, fractures, and infections in the bone.

With most bone density tests, a person remains dressed. The test typically takes under 15 minutes and is non-invasive and painless. A central DXA uses very little radiation. The test results can help your healthcare provider make recommendations to protect your bones.