Bone Density Screening
Humboldt Park Health understands that our patient's bone health is important to their quality of life. As our patients age, their bones can weaken and make the patient more prone to fractures, which are harder to heal from at an older age. This safe, painless procedure uses small amounts of radiation to measure bone density. As with breast cancer, early detection is important in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Risk factors for osteoporosis:
• Age > 50
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Low body weight (petite/thin frame)
• Lack of exercise
• Post-menopausal
• Smoking
What to Expect at Your Bone Density Test
This simple procedure usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. Depending on the part of the body being tested, you may simply lie on a table or place your arm on the table. Dress comfortably, but don't wear clothes with metal buttons, buckles or zippers. Be sure to tell your health-care provider if you're pregnant.
About the Bone Density Scan
Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DXA is today's established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD).
X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. DXA is most often performed on the lower spine and hips. In some adults, the whole body is sometimes scanned.
After the Procedure
• After the procedure, your bone density scan is compared with the standards for what is expected for someone your age, gender and size and to the optimal peak bone density of a healthy young adult of the same gender.
• Results from a bone density scan should be discussed with a physician to ensure you understand how the comparisons relate to your health.
• Because bone density scanning involves a non-invasive x-ray, there are no special post-procedure requirements for patients.
For more information or to make an appointment call 888.624.1850.
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