The likelihood of developing osteoporosis — a medical condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle depends on how much bone mass you attain at the age of 30 and how rapidly you lose it after that.
Though osteoporosis would only be suspected after you broke a bone, however, a bone density test can help evaluate your risk of breaking bones.
Getting a bone density scan can tell you whether your bones are at average or very low density. The results predict your risk of a fracture, so you can start taking steps to prevent one.
These scans use X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed in your bone. The bones commonly tested are; spine, hip, and sometimes the forearm.
The higher your bone mineral content, the less likely they are to break.
It is not common for people aged below 65, but your doctor may recommend a bone density test if you’ve:
You may need a follow-up test after a few years, depending on your first test results.
People under 50 have a low risk of breaking a bone. They either have no bone loss or a minor one called osteopenia.
There are many risks as a bone-density test gives out a small amount of radiation, which tends to add up. These effects can stay in your body over your life, so it is best to avoid them if you can.
A bone density test can confirm that you have low bone density, but it can’t tell you why. To answer that question, you need a complete medical evaluation.
Keep in mind Your bones don’t reach their greatest density until you are 30 years old. So for people younger than 30, anything that helps increase bone density will have more extended benefits:
Understand and implement these basic yet essential tips for better bone health. If you are worried about your bones’ health, you can schedule your Bone Density Test at One Step Diagnostic today!