Osteoporosis FAQs

Osteoporosis Screenings & Testing

Eighty percent of those affected by osteoporosis are women, but younger women and men can also be at risk. If you are a 50 year-old woman, you have a 50-50 chance of suffering a bone fracture related to osteoporosis during your lifetime.

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. Most people who are affected don’t even know they have it until after they break a bone. The most common symptom is a loss of height, due to fractures in your vertebrae. Some people also experience chronic back pain and stooped posture.

What is bone density testing?

A state-of-the-art, dual-energy X-ray densitometer is used to detect early bone loss of the hip and spine. The exam is performed by a nurse or technologist who has special training to use this equipment.

Is the examination safe?

Bone densitometry involves an extremely small dose of radiation. As with any medical procedure, be sure to tell us if you are or may be pregnant.

Who interprets my test results?

The results of your exam are interpreted by a clinician who has special interest and education in osteoporosis. Your test results will be sent to your health care provider.

What happens during the test?

You’ll be asked to lie down for approximately ten minutes on an exam table. The machine won’t enclose you in any way. There is no discomfort, and no injections or special dyes.

When will I get my results?

We’ll send a report of your exam to your physician. If you don’t have your results within two to three weeks, call your physician's office.

What should I do before the exam?

Don’t have this exam within two weeks of any barium X-ray study or nuclear medicine test that uses contrast dye.

If you take a calcium supplement, don't take it within 12 hours of your exam. You may take it when your exam is over.

Wear loose fitting clothes without metal zippers, zipper tabs, metal snaps, buckles or metal buttons. A warm-up suit or pants with an elastic waistband are a good choice.

You’ll receive a medical history questionnaire in the mail before your exam. Bring the completed form to your appointment. If there are questions you can’t answer, leave them blank and we’llreview them with you. This questionnaire is used to determine any risks you may have for developing osteoporosis.