About Bone Density Testing
Merita Health uses advanced DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) technology to screen for osteoporosis and other bone health issues. Our bone density testing enables early detection and treatment to prevent fractures and mobility loss, particularly important for postmenopausal women and older adults.
Our Bone Health Services
- DEXA Scan: Gold standard for bone density measurement
- Fracture Risk Assessment: 10-year fracture probability calculation
- Vertebral Fracture Assessment: Detection of spinal fractures
- Body Composition Analysis: Fat and muscle mass measurement
- Follow-up Scans: Monitoring treatment effectiveness
- Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed results with recommendations
Who Should Get Bone Density Testing?
We recommend bone density testing for:
- Women age 65+ and men age 70+ (routine screening)
- Postmenopausal women under 65 with risk factors
- Men age 50-69 with clinical risk factors
- Adults with fragility fractures (broken bones from minor trauma)
- People taking medications that cause bone loss (steroids)
- Individuals with conditions affecting bone health
- Anyone being treated for osteoporosis (to monitor response)
Understanding DEXA Results (T-scores)
| T-score Range |
Interpretation |
Clinical Significance |
| -1.0 and above |
Normal bone density |
No increased fracture risk |
| -1.0 to -2.5 |
Osteopenia (low bone mass) |
Moderately increased fracture risk |
| -2.5 and below |
Osteoporosis |
Significantly increased fracture risk |
| -2.5 and below with fracture |
Severe osteoporosis |
Very high fracture risk |
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Female gender (women lose bone faster after menopause)
- Family history of osteoporosis or fractures
- Low body weight or small frame
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake
- Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged immobility
- Certain medications (steroids, some cancer treatments)
- Medical conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism)
The Testing Process
- Registration and preparation instructions
- Questionnaire about risk factors and medical history
- DEXA scan (typically of hip and spine)
- Procedure takes 10-20 minutes
- Results interpretation by radiologist
- Consultation with healthcare provider
- Personalized treatment recommendations
Benefits of Bone Density Testing
- Early detection of bone loss before fractures occur
- Accurate assessment of fracture risk
- Guidance for preventive measures and treatment
- Monitoring effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment
- Peace of mind about bone health
- Prevention of debilitating fractures (hip, spine)
- Maintenance of independence and quality of life
