19 May Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease”—and for good reason. It develops slowly over time, weakening bones without noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. Understanding osteoporosis and the role of bone density testing is key to prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.

What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become thin, brittle, and more likely to break. While bone loss is a natural part of aging, osteoporosis accelerates this process, especially in postmenopausal women and older adults. Common fracture sites include the spine, hip, and wrist, and these breaks can significantly impact mobility, independence, and quality of life.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
While anyone can develop osteoporosis, several factors increase your risk:

• Age – Risk increases with age.
• Gender – Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis, especially after menopause.
• Family history – Genetics play a role.
• Lifestyle factors – Smoking, excessive alcohol use, poor nutrition, and sedentary behavior can contribute.
• Medical conditions or medications – Certain conditions and long-term use of steroids can affect bone health.

What Is a DXA Scan?
A DXA scan (short for Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the most commonly used test to measure bone mineral density (BMD). It’s a quick, painless, and non-invasive test that helps assess your risk for fractures and diagnose osteoporosis before a break happens.

What to Expect During a DXA Scan

• You’ll lie fully clothed on a padded table.
• The scanner will pass over your body, typically focusing on your hip and spine.
• The scan uses very low levels of X-rays to capture images and measure bone density.
• The whole process usually takes less than 20 minutes.

How DXA Scans Help
1. Early Detection
DXA scans can identify low bone density before a fracture occurs, allowing for early intervention.

2. Tracking Bone Health Over Time
If you’ve already been diagnosed with low bone mass or osteoporosis, DXA scans help track the effectiveness of treatment and monitor changes in bone density.

3. Guiding Treatment Decisions
The results of a DXA scan are used to calculate your T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. Based on your T-score, your provider can determine your level of bone loss and create a personalized treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, supplements, or medications.

Prevention and Bone Health Tips
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis or are working to prevent it, here are a few tips for maintaining strong bones:

• Get enough calcium and vitamin D through food or supplements.
• Stay active, especially with weight-bearing and strength-training exercises.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Talk to your provider about risk factors and whether a DXA scan is right for you.

Take Charge of Your Bone Health
Osteoporosis doesn’t have to catch you off guard. A DXA scan is a valuable tool for taking a proactive step toward stronger bones and a healthier future. If you’re concerned about your bone health or think you may be at risk, talk to your healthcare provider about scheduling a bone density test.

To learn more about DXA scans and what to expect, visit our DEXA Bone Scan service page.