The Bone Density Test

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone density in patients, especially women in their later years, that can result in easily broken bones due to fragility caused by missing minerals in the bones. While it used to require bone breakage to get a bone density done, that was changed with the innovation of the testing process. Today bone density tests are done as patients age to test for osteoporosis, to check for demineralization, and to monitor the progress of the condition in those who suffer from it. Modern patients get the benefit of tracking their bone density through these simple tests, letting them maintain their bone health.

Tests For Bone Density And When You Should Get Them

The density of your bones is dependent on sufficient minerals, including calcium, being present in them. Dense bones are better able to support the patient, and are resistant to damage including breaks and fractures. Since osteoporosis directly impacts the density of your bones it’s essential to be able to monitor the health and density of your skeleton. Modern tests make it possible for patients to monitor their bone health to catch any indicators of osteoporosis, as well as track the progress of the condition if a positive diagnosis has been reached. Older patients in particular are susceptible to this loss of bone density, especially women who have passed through menopause. Your physician may order a test for bone density for the following reasons:

• Changes In Patient Height – If your physician is noting that you have started losing height, and that your height has reduced by more than 1.5 inches, they’ll do a bone density test.

• Bone Breakage – Reduced density in bones means that your bones are at a greater risk for being broken. Osteoporosis can become severe enough in some patients that even coughing or sneezing can result in the breaking of ribs or clavicle.
• Medications – Those patients who have conditions being treated with prednisone and other medications may experience a higher occurrence of osteoporosis. Certain medications can actually case bone rebuilding to be impaired.
• Hormonal Changes – Those who are having

If you’re experiencing a period of hormonal change, especially menopause, you may also be at greater risk for developing osteoporosis. In men who are undergoing for testosterone treatment weakened bones can result from reduced testosterone levels.

Bone Scan Preparations

For those who have concerns about getting a density scan done on their bones, the good news is that the tests are completely painless. The newest tests require no preparation on the part of the patient, and they’re easy enough to administer that some pharmacies can do them. Those who go to the hospital to get their tests done need to make sure that their physicians are aware of any barium tests that have been done, or any contrast injections.

Patients that have faced concerns that may be signs of osteoporosis can request a bone density test from their physician. If you’re moving to the Merrit Island FL area or already live there and are looking for a new physician, contact Dr. Luc Tuerlings at Space Coast Orthopedics for an appointment today.