A Bone Density test determines the condition, or density of your bones using x-ray. Often, Bone Density tests are used to diagnose osteoporosis, assessing fracture risks, and other bone disorders in adults and children. There is a very small amount of radiation exposure, but the chance of this causing damage is extremely low.
“Density” refers to the degree to which something is solid. A bone density test discovers how solid your bone is. This can be very important in diagnosing osteoporosis or finding a fracture of a bone. MANA’s imaging specialists are very experienced with bone density tests.
What to Expect
If there is a possibility that you are pregnant, let your physician or x-ray technician know and a different form of imaging may be used.
You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and wear a gown depending on your exam. You may also be asked to take off any jewelry, glasses and other metal objects that may interfere with the x-ray. A machine will be used to take the x-ray on a certain part of your body, generally the spine, hip, heel or wrist.
Bone Density tests are noninvasive, and the test itself generally only lasts a few minutes.