Bone Density

Bone Densitometry is a safe, low dose X-ray procedure that assists in diagnosing decreased bone density. This exam estimates the amount of bone mineral content in specific areas of the body, including the spine and hips.

What causes Osteoporsis?

Bones are a living tissue that are constantly regenerating, as a person grows bone form fasten than it breaks down until it reach a peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 35. Both men and women lose bone at a greater rate than it forms, causing bone loss. Women after menopause start to lose bone at a much more rapid rate than men of the same age. This rapid bone loss is usually due to a decrease in the production of the estrogen hormone. As a greater amount of bone is lost, the bone becomes porous and brittle. Early detection is the best way to protect against osteoporosis.

What will the exam be like?

The Bone Densitometry exam is extremely easy, safe, and painless. The Technologist that will be performing the study will assist you onto the examination table and will ask you to lie still. You will be able to breathe normally throughout the procedure. A scanner arm will pass over the area of interest, for example the lower spine or hip. The entire exam will take about 30 minutes.