How strong are your bones?

 

A bone density test can provide the answer.

 

Researchers estimate that osteoporosis is the culprit behind more than 1.5 million bone fractures annually. Yet osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because symptoms may not appear until something such a as a fracture points to its existence.  “You don’t know you have low bone density in advance unless you’re tested,” says Lynn R. Allen, MD, clinical director of the metabolic disease unit at St. Luke’s Hospital.

 

Testing, testing!

 

A bone density test is the most accurate way to assess early osteoporosis.  The screening it fast painless and noninvasive. “The test looks for low bone density, which is one risk factor for bone fractures” says Dr. Allen.  “Based on your test results and other factors, doctors can estimate how likely you are to have debilitating bone fracture.”

 

St. Luke’s offer dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) testing considered the “gold standard.”  DEXA’s advantages include high precision, minimal radiation exposure and rapid scanning time. “The test uses a very tiny x-ray dose-less than one-tenth of a chest X-ray-and checks the spine, the hip and sometimes the wrist,” Dr. Allen says “It takes about a half hour overall and patients are comfortable during the procedure.”

 

When should you get tested?

 

The government recommends that women over age 65 and men over age 70 get a bone density test.  Earlier testing may be suggested for those at higher risk of osteoporosis.

 

Consider earlier testing if you:

 

Have a family history of hip fractures

Have had a bone fracture

Are thin or small-framed

 

Even women whose low weight is normal for their frames are at higher risk for osteoporosis.

 

Smoke

Many studies suggest some connection between tobacco use and bone loss.

Have any condition that may contribute to falls, like poor eyesight.

Have medical condition that makes you prone to weaker bones and fractures, such as inflammatory bowel disease, lung disease, liver disease, and kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Take medication that may contribute to low bone density, such as corticosteroids.

 

 

Boost your bone health

For more information about DEXA scanning and to schedule an Appointment call (212) 492-5500