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Bone Density

Osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones which causes the bones to become fragile and more likely to break. However, osteoporosis is preventable and, if diagnosed early, there are treatments available to slow the progression of bone loss.

What You Need To Know

A bone density test measures your bone mineral density at your hip and spine which shows your doctor if you have osteoporosis or a less severe, but still problematic level of bone loss, called osteopenia. There are two ways to measure bone mineral density: DXA and QCT.

Risk factors for osteoporosis:

  • Female
  • Age 65 or older
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Estrogen deficiency (which can be caused by menopause)
  • Little or no exercise
  • Past or current tobacco and/or excessive alcohol use
  • Use of certain medications such as corticosteroids 
  • Low body weight or a small frame
  • History of broken bones

A bone density test should be considered:

  • If you’re postmenopausal and at risk of osteoporosis
  • To assess your response to osteoporosis medications
  • If you have a condition called “primary hyperparathyroidism”
  • If you have certain spinal abnormalities that might indicate a fracture
  • If you’re on long-term corticosteroid therapy, such as Prednisone

Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Density

  • What is a bone density test?

    A bone density test measures your bone mineral density at your hip and spine which shows your doctor if you have osteoporosis or a less severe, but still problematic level of bone loss, called osteopenia.

  • What are risk factors for osteoporosis?
    • Female
    • Age 65 or older
    • Family history of osteoporosis
    • Estrogen deficiency (which can be caused by menopause)
    • Sedentary lifestyle
    • Past or current tobacco and/or excessive alcohol use
    • Use of certain medications such as corticosteroids
    • Low body weight or a small frame
    • History of broken bones
  • What is the difference between Bone Densitometry (DEXA, DXA) and QCT?

    Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, DEXA or DXA, uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body (usually the lower (or lumbar) spine and hips) to measure bone loss. QCT is a fast, non-invasive bone mineral density (BMD) exam performed on a CT scanner. It allows us to look for low bone mass and monitor the effects of bone mass therapy in patients undergoing treatment.

  • What can I expect from a bone density exam?

    You will be asked to change into scrubs for your exam. For a DEXA/DXA exam you will lie on a special table and the machine will go over the top of your body starting at the lower spine and down to your hips. If you have a QCT, you go into a traditional CT scanner feet first, and your spine and hips will be scanned.

  • Can a bone density test detect arthritis?

    Areas of extra bone activity (common in both cancer and arthritis) will show up on the scan because the radioactive substance collects in areas of new bone formation.

  • At what age should you get a bone density test?

    Women should get a bone scan at age 65. Men age 70 and up may want to talk with their doctors about the risks and benefits before deciding. Younger women, and men ages 50 to 69, should consider the test if they have risk factors for serious bone loss. Generally, post-menopausal women should get a bone density scan, but ask your doctor for their recommendation.

  • How often should I get a bone density test?

    Usually health plans will pay for bone density testing every two years, but if your bones are in good shape, your doctor may extend the time between tests.

  • What disease can cause low bone density?

    Type 1 diabetes, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, celiac disease, asthma and multiple sclerosis are all medical conditions linked to osteoporosis and bone loss.

  • Can I take vitamin D before a bone density test?

    Eat, drink, and take any medications as you normally would. However, do not take calcium supplements or drugs that contain calcium, such as Tums, for 24 hours before your bone densitometry test.

  • Can I wear a bra for a bone density test?

    You will be asked to change into a gown or scrubs, removing jewelry, hearing aids, belt buckles, zippers, snaps, or buttons. Females should wear a sports bra. Bras with under wires will need to be removed.

  • What is good bone mass/bone density?

    Your bone density test results are reported using T-scores. A T-score shows how much your bone density is higher or lower than the bone density of a healthy 30-year old adult.

    • A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal bone density. Examples are 0.9, 0 and -0.9.
    • A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 means you have low bone density or osteopenia. Examples are T-scores of -1.1, -1.6 and -2.4.
    • A T-score of -2.5 or below is a diagnosis of osteoporosis. Examples are T-scores of -2.6, -3.3 and -3.9.
    • The lower a person’s T-score, the lower the bone density. A T-score of -1.0 is lower than a T-score of 0.5 and a T-score of -3.5 is lower than a T-score of -3.0.
  • What does it mean when you have low bone density?

    Low bone density is when your bone density is lower than normal, but not low enough to be considered osteoporosis. It may mean that you have a greater chance of getting osteoporosis if you lose bone in the future because you have less bone to lose.

  • How can I rebuild bone density/bone mass after 60?

    Increase your daily doses of calcium and vitamin D, Incorporate core strengthening and weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, biking and light aerobics. No smoking and moderate alcohol consumption. Consult with your doctor and ask about the affect your medications can have on your bone density and get the recommended bone density tests.

  • Can osteoporosis be reversed with exercise?

    Not entirely, but you can make fractures less likely by maintaining or improving your bone density. Doing that typically involves being active, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and taking osteoporosis drugs.

  • Is the screening cost covered by insurance?

    Most insurers and Medicare will cover the cost of a bone density test as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are interested in the screening, but are not sure if you are eligible, your doctor can help by evaluating you.

  • Do you need a referral for a bone density test?

    Your doctor or other qualified provider must evaluate you and provide a referral for a bone density test.

  • Will I get a copy of my results?

    The results from your exam are mailed to your doctor, and if you request, we can mail a copy to you , which takes 5-7 business days.

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