A bone density test measures the strength of your bones, which is vital to overall health. The team at Mass Medical Imaging in Lake Forest, Illinois, performs bone density tests to evaluate bone health and body composition using the most advanced imaging equipment available. The team makes sure they can schedule an appointment quickly. Call or book your bone density test online today.
A bone density test, also called a dual-energy-X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, measures the mineral density in your bones or bone strength. Your bones are actively growing in mass and strength until about age 30. After that, your bones gradually lose mass and strength over time.
It’s normal to have thinner bones as you get older. However, if your bones get too thin, you risk developing osteoporosis, a brittle bone disease that increases the risk of fractures.
A bone density test looks at the mineral density of your bones to diagnose osteoporosis or determine if you’re at risk of developing osteoporosis.
It’s generally recommended that all post-menopausal women and men 65 and older have a bone density test. However, you may need to start testing early if you’re at greater risk of developing osteoporosis.
Risk factors that may indicate you need an earlier bone density test include:
You may also need to schedule a bone density test sooner than recommended if you have diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or liver disease.
The bone density test at Mass Medical Imaging is quick, comfortable, and professional. And there’s nothing you need to do before your test to prepare except wear comfortable clothing.
During the test, you lie on the padded X-ray table. The team may direct you to lie with your legs straight or bent. The DEXA scan then passes over your body, taking images of your hips and lower spine. You won’t feel anything during the test and can resume your routine afterward.
Mass Medical Imaging performs bone density tests to measure bone mass. Your provider at the imaging center explains what your results mean. Your test may show normal or low mineral density or osteoporosis.
The DEXA scan at Mass Medical Imaging also measures your body composition, comparing fat mass to lean body. Your body composition can provide information about your overall health.
Do you have concerns about bone health? Call Mass Medical Imaging or schedule your bone density test online today.