DXA Scans: Your First Step in Detecting Osteoporosis
Published: May 08, 2024
Detecting osteoporosis early through DXA scans can prevent future fractures and keep your bones strong.
Contents
What is a DXA Scan?
A DXA scan is a type of X-ray that measures bone density. It's the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and provides a clear picture of bone health.
Who Should Get a DXA Scan?
Women over 65 and men over 70 are typically recommended to have a DXA scan. Those with risk factors like a family history of osteoporosis or previous fractures should consider earlier testing. Regular monitoring helps in adjusting treatment plans effectively.
Interpreting DXA Results
DXA results are given as a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A T-score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis, guiding treatment decisions to prevent fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures bone density to assess osteoporosis risk.
Typically women over 65 and men over 70, or those with risk factors.
Results are given as a T-score; below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
Key Takeaways
Regular DXA scans are vital in maintaining bone health and preventing fractures.
Schedule a DXA scan today with Doctronic to understand your bone health better.Related Articles
References
Genant HK, Wu CY, van Kuijk C, Nevitt MC. J Bone Miner Res 1993; 8:1137.
Campbell SE, Phillips CD, Dubovsky E, et al. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 1995; 16:1385.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.