Osteoporosis is a common condition, especially among the elderly. A bone mineral density test can tell you whether or not you have this condition even before you break a bone. Those with low bone mineral density can take precautions and start treatment to minimize their chances of breaking bones if they know they have this condition.
Types
The most common way to check bone mineral density is through a test called dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA, according to Washington University. Other tests are also sometimes used, including ultrasound, quantitative computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, hand X-rays and single energy absorptiometry. The results of these tests are turned into what is called a T-score, which measure how many standard deviations from normal your bone density is.
Function
These tests are all painless and non-invasive, and they are used to diagnose low bone density or osteoporosis, as well as to monitor this condition and see whether or not a treatment is having any effect. They can also help doctors predict the likelihood of a patient breaking a bone due to osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. T-scores of between 1 and minus 1 are considered normal, those between minus 1 and minus 2.5 indicate osteopenia, or low bone mineral density, and those with scores of minus 2.5 or lower indicate osteoporosis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Benefits
When a person knows whether or not her T-score for bone mineral density falls within the normal range or within that for osteopenia or osteoporosis, she can take appropriate measures to keep herself healthy. Those with normal levels can continue making sure to get enough calcium and vitamin D, as well as weight-bearing exercise. Those with scores indicating osteopenia or osteoporosis can consider taking osteoporosis medication to minimize the loss of minerals from their bones as well as making sure they get enough calcium and vitamin D.
Warning
Results from bone mineral density tests include both T-scores and Z-scores, with Z-scores comparing your results to those of others in the same age group. When it comes to diagnosing osteoporosis, the T-score is more accurate for older individuals since most elderly people have low bone density, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Younger individuals are considered to have normal bone mineral density if their Z-score is minus 2 or above.
Expert Insight
According to the Mayo Clinic, women over 65 and men over 70, those over 50 who have broken a bone, and men over 50 and postmenopausal women over 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis should check to see if their bone mineral density falls within the normal range of minus 1 to 1 T-scores.
