BMD Machine

Bone Mass Density (BMD)

bone density test is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs. This test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone. NOF recommends a bone density test of the hip and spine by a central DXA machine to diagnose osteoporosis

Bone Mass Density Scan

A bone mineral density test uses X-rays to measure the amount of minerals — namely calcium — in your bones. This test is important for people who are at risk for osteoporosis, especially women and older adults.

The test is also referred to as dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). It’s an important test for osteoporosis, which is the most common type of bone disease. Osteoporosis causes your bone tissue to become thin and frail over time and leads to disabling fractures.

What’s the purpose of the test?

Your doctor may order a bone mineral density test if they suspect that your bones are becoming weaker, you’re displaying symptoms of osteoporosis, or you’ve reached the age when preventive screening is necessary.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that the following people get preventive screenings for bone mineral density:

  • all women over the age of 65
  • women under the age of 65 who have a high risk of fractures

Women have an increased risk for osteoporosis if they smoke or consume three or more alcoholic beverages per day. They’re also at an increased risk if they have:

  • chronic kidney disease
  • early menopause
  • an eating disorder resulting in low body weight
  • a family history of osteoporosis
  • a “fragility fracture” (a broken bone caused by regular activities)
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • significant height loss (a sign of compression fractures in the spinal column)
  • a sedentary lifestyle that includes minimal weight bearing activities

Risks of a bone mineral density test

Because a bone mineral density test uses X-rays, there’s a small risk associated with radiation exposure. However, the radiation levels of the test are very low. Experts agree that the risk posed by this radiation exposure is far lower than the risk of not detecting osteoporosis before you get a bone fracture.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or believe you could be pregnant. X-ray radiation could harm your fetus.

After a bone mineral density test

Your doctor will review your test results. The results, referred to as a T-score, are based on the bone mineral density of a healthy 30-year-old compared to your own value. A score of 0 is considered ideal.

The NIH offers the following guidelines for bone density scores:

  • normal: between 1 and -1
  • low bone mass: -1 to -2.5
  • osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower
  • severe osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower with bone fractures

Your doctor will discuss your results with you. Depending on your results and the reason for the test, your doctor may want to do follow-up testing. They will work with you to come up with a treatment plan to tackle any issues.