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As you age, your bones continue to play an integral role in your health. Age-related issues can lead to complications that make them brittle and prone to breaks. It’s important to stay ahead of problems, and bone density testing is one of the best ways. Technicians can use the results to detect weak bones before incidents happen, which can do wonders for preserving a person’s health and well-being.

Bone Density Testing

What Is It?

bone-density-testing-main-street-radiologyBone density testing is used to detect osteoporosis, a disease where bones become porous and fragile. A series of X-rays are performed to measure the calcium levels and minerals in your bones, usually those in the spine, forearm, or hip. A doctor can use the results to determine if the bones are prone to breaks and if you’ve developed osteoporosis.

Why Is It Necessary?

Bone density testing helps patients with osteoporosis stay ahead of injuries. Broken bones and fractures can severely impact mobility and quality of life. In serious cases of osteoporosis, it may only take a strong sneeze to break a bone. Weak bones can also cause seniors to lose height. A physician can create a treatment plan based on the results of the bone density testing, which may include medications based on the risk of you breaking a bone in the next 10 years. Hormone-related therapy may also be an option.

What’s the Exam Like?

You’ll begin the exam by lying on a padded platform. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and remove all metal from your person. A mechanical arm will then pass over your body and take X-rays for roughly 10 to 20 minutes. Bone density can vary throughout the body, so the technicians may also use a small portable screening machine on the extremities. It’s a painless procedure with low levels of radiation. The results are measured in T-scores—bone density compared against a healthy baseline—and Z-scores—standard deviations of what’s expected.

 

Bone density testing has a significant impact on your health and the technicians at Main Street Radiology provide comprehensive screening services. They also handle MRI, CT scan, breast cancer screening, and other services at their Bayside, NY, practice and are committed to accuracy and their patients’ comfort. Call (718) 428-1500 to schedule an exam and visit their website to explore the practice further. You can connect on Facebook for news and updates.

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