• Do you have a small, thin frame, or are you Caucasian or Asian?
• Do you have a family history of osteoporosis?
• Have you or your parent had a fracture?
• Are you a post-menopausal woman?
• Have you had an early or surgically induced menopause?
• Have you lost height?
• Have you been taking excessive thyroid medication or cortisone for asthma, arthritis or colitis?
• Is your diet low in dairy products and other sources of calcium?
• Are you physically inactive?
• Do you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol excessively?

What is Bone Densitometry?

Bone densitometry is the most accurate test to measure your bone mass to determine if you have osteoporosis. It is a simple, painless test that uses a small amount of radiation (1/10th or less of the radiation you receive in a chest x-ray) to determine the thickness, or density, of the bones of the hip and spine.

About the Test…..

When you come in for your appointment you will be given a brief medical history form to complete.
You lie on a comfortable table for about 10 minutes and measurements are made of the hip and spine. These measurements tell us about your entire bone structure. Unlike other x-rays and tests, you do not need to fast from eating or change clothes. We recommend however, that you do wear loose fitting clothing without zippers, snaps, or metal. It recommended that you do not wear an under wire bra.

What can a Bone Density Test Tell Me and My Doctor?

A bone density test can…..
• Detect low bone density before a fracture occurs.
• Predict your chances of fracturing in the future.
• Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis if you have already fractured.
• Monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.
What About Insurance?

At the time that you call for an appointment our reception staff will be asking you for demographic information such as your name, address, phone number. They will also ask for your insurance information. This will be passed on to the Bone Density department which will contact your insurance carrier to inquire about your policy coverage. Coverage will be reviewed with you prior to your scheduled appointment.