Osteoporosis is a silent disease of the bones that makes them weaken and prone to fracture. By their mid-30s, most people begin to gradually lose bone strength; as a result, bones become thinner and structurally weaker.* A Bone Density test ( scan or screening ) is the best way to determine if you have a problem with bone density.
There are no symptoms when you have osteoporosis, and the condition may come to your attention only after you break a bone. Bones affected by osteoporosis are less dense than normal bones, and are more likely to break, even as a result of a minor bump or fall, or even without an injury.
The most common fractures occur at the spine, wrist and hip. Spine and hip fractures in particular may lead to chronic pain, long-term disability and even death.
DEXA Bone Density Testing is the most accurate method available to diagnose osteoporosis. Early detection is the key to prevention of further bone loss and eventual fractures.
How does a Bone Denisty Screening work? A thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays travel through your bones in two energy streams. One is absorbed by the soft tissue (your muscles, organs and fat), while the other is absorbed by bone. A simple calculation subtracting one from the other provides the bone mineral density.
No complications. No pain.
* - American College of Rheumatology