Bone density can significantly decrease as a person ages. With lower mineral concentration in the bones, the risk of a fracture increases. A family physician can perform tests to determine if patients are at risk.
What is a Bone Density Test?
A test is the only exam that can diagnose osteoporosis or osteopenia before a bone breaks. With lower mineral density in the bone, the bones become much weaker. This increases the risk of broken bones. Upon receiving the results, a healthcare provider can help predict the chance of future broken bones, which could result in surgery and physical therapy later.
What are Normal Results?
Test results are called T-scores. This number represents the mineral density as it compares to a 30-year-old. Patients with a normal T-score have results of -1.0 or higher. A family physician will diagnose patients with osteopenia if T-scores are between -1.0 and -2.5. Patients with T-scores below -2.5 are diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Who Should Have This Test?
Bone mineral loss can affect anyone at any age. However, women tend to be affected more often. For ladies, testing should begin at age 65. Men can wait until after their 70th birthday.
Patients who are post-menopausal with risk factors could be at risk. Risk factors include not enough calcium in the diet. Patients who have a history of anorexia nervosa or have a family history of osteoporosis, as well as those who smoke or drink heavily, are at a higher risk.
A family physician may also request a bone density test if patients have lost half an inch or more in height over a one-year period. They may also target individuals who have had a recent x-ray showing a fracture or bone loss in the spine.
In preparation for this test, any body piercings below the neck should be removed. Patients shouldn’t wear clothing with metallic parts, paint, or thread. Medications can be taken as usual, and meals do not have to be skipped.
In July, Carthage Area Hospital’s foundation will hold their annual golf tournament. This year’s proceeds are earmarked for the purchase of a new bone density machine.