What Is Bone Densitometry?

Bone densitometry is a test that uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation that allows for the production of pictures inside the body, specifically in the lower spine and hips. These bone densitometry tests are usually used to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis, to get access to determine an individual’s risk for developing osteoporosis fractures.

At Women4Women, we offer many different services to help our patients strengthen their bodies. If you are looking for a gyno Long Island, we specialize in gynecologic management and offer care regarding bone health. People are not aware of their bone strength until they receive legitimate tests. It’s important to know this information about your body before it’s too late.

The Importance of Bone Densitometry Tests

The purpose of bone densitometry tests is to measure how strong the bones in your body currently are. These tests help with locating issues that are present in your bones to avoid potential fractures in the near future. Lower bone density means that you have a larger risk of breaking a bone.

As previously stated, the main reason people come in to get bone densitometry tests done on their bodies is to detect osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease present in bones that occurs when the body makes too much bone, loses too much bone, or even both. The effects that osteoporosis leaves on a body are that bones become weak (low density) and are more vulnerable to breaking from a fall. In more severe cases, bones with low density can break while sneezing. Osteoporosis pain includes:

Severe back pain that gets worse over time when walking or standing
- It can be difficult to lay down
Having trouble bending or twisting your body
- Pain is present during these movements
Loss of height
Curved spine

Bones become super fragile when osteoporosis is present. Our gyno Long Island is here to help with the most care possible.

What are some common uses of a Bone Densitometry Procedure?

Along with many of the side effects that osteoporosis brings upon the body, it also often affects women after menopause. Bone densitometry tests are very encouraged if you are a/experiencing any of the following:

Hip fracture
Consistent smoker
Post-menopausal women
Man with conditions related to bone loss
- Kidney/liver disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Type 1 diabetes
Taking any medication that leads to potential bone loss

These are a few of the many symptoms/lifestyle factors that can lead to potential osteoporosis. If you are dealing with these symptoms, come visit Women4Women for expert assistance and care.

Why Should You Get a Bone Density Test?

The presence of decreased bone mass needs to be treated as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage to the body. Mainly regarding the elderly, the complications that develop from the presence of osteoporosis are very severe. Bone density testing is often used to:

Predict your chance of potential bone fracture in the future
Help assist doctors in determining the bone loss rate in your body
Confirm an osteoporosis diagnosis
Determine if the treatment you are receiving has been working

Bone Densitometry Test Results

This bone densitometry test determines your body’s bone mineral density. Your bone mineral density is compared in two different categories: healthy young adults (T-score) and age-matched adults (Z-score). According to the WHO (World Health Organization), osteoporosis is based upon the following bone density levels:

T-score within 1 SD of the young adult mean
- Normal bone density
T-score of 1-2.5 SD below the young adult mean
- Low bone mass
T-score of 2.5+ SD below the young adult mean
- Osteoporosis is present in the body’s bones

The risk for bone fracture doubles when the SD is significantly below the mean number.

Contact Our Gyno Long Island

If you are dealing with any type of symptoms related to osteoporosis, or any bone damage in general, come visit us at Women4Women to get treated. The gyno Long Island that we have can help you benefit in many ways. Schedule an appointment on our website or call us at (516) 437-4300.