The bone density test aims at measuring the amount of minerals in your bones. It primarily focuses on calcium density in the bones. The bone mineral density test is performed to check whether you have Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become extremely fragile, and this increases the chances of bone fractures. It is mostly focused on areas like the hips, spine, and forearm. The test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of minerals are there in a segment of bone.

There are two types of bone mineral density tests as mentioned below.

1) Central DXA

DXA stands for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). A bone density test of the hip and spine is conducted using a machine. This is done to diagnose the density of minerals in these bones and to make an assessment about the chances of Osteoporosis.  

Bone density in the bones of the spine and hip can give greater insights and is thus recommended by Radiology Center at Harding at Morristown, New Jersey. People with Osteoporosis have fragile bones, and their chance of bone fracture is higher. Moreover, bones in the hip and spine are important for body movements, and a broken bone can result in immense pain with prolonged recovery time and can even lead to permanent disability. Bone Density in the hip and spine can be used to make assessment about other bones.

The Central DXA tests require you to lie in a soft chair, fully dressed while your hip and spine are exposed to low radiation. A scanner is moved over the hip and spine to test the density in these areas to make sure there are no zippers or buttons in the area to be scanned. The process is painless and is completed in just 15 minutes. It does not require the use of any needles or instruments, and the low dose radiation used is not harmful.

2) Screening tests

Screening tests are also known as peripheral tests. Screening tests are focused on the bone density of the wrist, lower arm, heel, or finger. The types of screening tests are as mentioned below

• PDXA (peripheral dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry)
• PQCT (peripheral quantitative computed tomography)
• QUS (quantitative ultrasound)

After your screening test, you must consult your health care provider to enquire about the necessity of further testing. The results of peripheral testing are not comparable to those obtained by central DXA.

Screening tests are done for normal screening, and they suggest whether or not bone density should be checked further. Most Central DXA machines are ineffective in finding bone density in people weighing more than 300 pounds. Recently machines have been developed that can check bone mineral density in people who weigh up to 400 pounds. However, these machines are not widely available. Screening tests in such cases prove to be extremely beneficial. Screening tests are not sure shot test to Diagnose Osteoporosis, and hence are ineffective in monitoring improvements from osteoporosis medication.