America Top 10

  • Home
  • Find A Top 10 List
  • News & Information
  • Our History
  • Contact Us

What is Bone Density?

May 27, 2012 By Elizabeth Leave a Comment

According to the National Library of Medicine, Bone density refers to the amount of mineral per square centimeter of Bone. This is the definition used in clinical practice. It may also sometimes refer to the concentration of carbonated hydroxyapatite, the inorganic component of bone.

bone-density-scan

Why is it important?

The importance of bone density can be expressed in the importance of bone itself. Our bones are highly rigid organs that function to maintain posture, aid in locomotion, and protect soft vital organs. A decrease in bone density can compromise our ability to stand, walk, run, and some of the other daily activities. As well as determine how easily bones are broken. Bone Density values are also used in clinical medicine to predict the risk of acquiring osteoporosis, a disease which involves a diminished concentration of hydroxyapatite. Also, because there have been evidence that other diseases and medications may also cause bone loss, monitoring the bone density in this situation can be very helpful in preventing more harm to the patient.

Another good reason for determining a person’s bone density is because of the proven connection between low bone density and high risk of fractures. These hip fractures or knee fractures due to falls have shown to be a significant problem to many people but especially in elderly women. In addition, these fractures may then lead to expensive medical treatment, inability of the patient to live independently, and even death.

How is it measured?

There are several ways to measure bone mineral density but these procedures are all painless, non-invasive, safe, and are readily available. Bone density is most frequently measured by the use of the dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, or DXA test. The test usually measures bone density of the spine, hip, or wrist as these are the most common sites of fractures due to osteoporosis. In general, the lower your bone density values, the higher will be your risk in getting fractures. The bone density test results will guide you and your doctor in planning for the best course of action in management and treatment.

Who should be assessed of Bone Density?

Women who are older than 65 years and men who are older than 70 years are the recommended candidates for Bone Density measurement. Younger people who have been undergoing multiple fractures are also good candidates to take the test.

Who are the specialists to consult with?

In general, an orthopedic surgeon has the responsibility of deciding whether you will need to have your Bone Density assessed. The doctor may already have an idea that your Bone density values are low when you present yourself to him or her numerous times with the same fracture complaints. To be certain, he may advise that you take the test. A radiologist can interpret the results once you have been tested. Then, depending on the degree of damage, an orthopedic surgeon or a physical therapist can assist you in terms of treatment and management.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Random Fact

Maine is the only state whose name is just one syllable.

  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Twitter

Related Information

<?php echo Easy Wicking Tubs; ?>

Easy Wicking Tubs

June 18, 2019 By Elizabeth

<?php echo What is a Neurologist; ?>

What is a Neurologist

June 16, 2019 By Elizabeth

<?php echo Birdhouses from Recycled Material; ?>

Birdhouses from Recycled Material

June 14, 2019 By Elizabeth

<?php echo Rained In? Go to the Library!; ?>

Rained In? Go to the Library!

June 12, 2019 By Elizabeth

<?php echo Benefits to Brow Threading; ?>

Benefits to Brow Threading

June 9, 2019 By Elizabeth

About America Top 10

It is all thanks to you! We never envisioned when America Top 10 launched way back in 2011 that we would come this far this fast. And it is all thanks to you. You have made America Top 10 the successful resource it is for tens of thousands of people like you every single day.

And we cherish all the wise advice, suggestions, questions, and comments you send us every day even if we do not get a chance to get back with every single one. We take pride in helping people find trustworthy sources in their local areas and we hope to keep doing this for a very long time.

Recent Articles

  • Nerve Neuropathy
  • Easy Wicking Tubs
  • What is a Neurologist
  • Birdhouses from Recycled Material
  • Rained In? Go to the Library!

Search

Copyright © 2021 America Top 10. All Rights Reserved.