Understanding bone density testing

Your bones are amazing. They support your body and help it move, protect your organs and make blood cells. If that’s not enough to convince you of their value, bones also contain cells that store fat, vitamin D and minerals such as calcium and phosphorous, so they’re readily available when your body needs them. 

Healthy bones are strong bones. On the other hand, weak bones break easily, causing pain and limiting your ability to move freely. And since they don’t always have any warning signs, knowing when your health is at risk can be challenging. 

A bone density test could be the answer.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we want to keep you up to date on all the women's health screening guidelines. We can also help you find a doctor and learn which preventative screenings are right for you. 

What is a bone density test?

A bone density test measures the strength of your bones — helping us detect when you have weak bones (osteoporosis) and predict your potential for breaking one in the future.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the most common bone density test uses a central dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. Bones containing plenty of calcium tend to be strong and dense, making them less likely to break. Because they tend to break most often, bones in the hip and spine are usually included in the testing.

The results of a bone density test are used to:

• Diagnose low bone mass (osteopenia)
• Diagnose osteoporosis
• Monitor osteoporosis treatment and gauge its effectiveness
• Predict your potential for future fractures

Bone density tests do not detect cancer. 

Who needs a bone density test?

According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force – a national panel of experts who makes recommendations about clinical preventative services – women should get a bone density test if they are

65 and older or younger than 65 with an increased risk of bone loss.

Several other factors can increase your risk of bone loss. Talk to your doctor about a bone density test if you:

• Are taking medications that could weaken your bones
• Consume more than three alcoholic drinks daily
• Had one or more fractures after age 50
• Have a family history of osteoporosis
• Have lost half of an inch or more of height in a year
• Have very low body weight
• Smoke

How is a bone density test done?

A bone density test, which typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes, is much like an X-ray or scan. No advanced preparation is needed, and it doesn’t hurt.

There are two main types of DEXA scans:

• A central DEXA scan checks the bone density of your hip, lower spine, wrist, hip or entire body. It is usually done in a clinic or hospital.
• A peripheral DEXA scan examines the bones of your hand, foot or wrist. It can be done in a mobile health van, drugstore or healthcare provider's office, as well as in clinics and hospitals.

What do my bone density test results mean?

Bone density results are given as Z-scores and T-scores. With both scores, higher numbers indicate you have strong, dense bones. Lower numbers indicate you are at increased risk of bone fractures.

• Z-scores are used for premenopausal women, men younger than 50 and children. They measure the difference between your bone mineral density and the average bone mineral density for healthy people of your sex, ethnicity and age.
• T-scores are used if you are postmenopausal or a man 50 or older. They measure the difference between your bone mineral density and the bone mineral density of a healthy young adult.

Strong bones literally create a strong framework for good health. Preventive screenings, such as bone density tests, are an excellent way to assess your risk and measure your progress if treatment is needed.

Schedule your health screenings 

We know life gets busy. That’s why HCA Florida Healthcare makes it easy to find and schedule the preventative screenings you and your loved ones need. Learn more about the health screenings we offer and how to schedule them.