A bone mineral density (BMD) test helps accurately identify osteoporosis and low bone mass. It estimates the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone.
Osteoporosis usually progresses slowly and without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Through early detection, your orthopaedist can work with you in making lifestyle changes and therapies that could help protect your bone health and reduce your risk of fractures.
The test generally takes about 10 – 20 minutes to complete and you will be able to go home after you have had it done.
An Osteoporosis screening is recommended for women aged 65 and older, and men over the age of 70.
You should also consider an osteoporosis screening if you have the following risk factors for bone loss:
You will be advised by your orthopaedist on how to prepare for a bone density test. However, generally, you should:
If you’ve taken a CT scan or MRI recently, which required an injection of barium or contrast dye, let your doctor know as the contrast dye may interfere with your bone density test.
The blood tests help check for any nutrient deficiencies you may have that could affect your bone health. For example, Vitamin D is essential for the bones and is a common nutritional deficiency. Calcium and phosphate levels also affect how we build strong bones and tissues.
A renal function test is important as the kidneys also play a role in bone health by maintaining healthy bone structures — balancing phosphorus and calcium levels in the blood.
Although inflammatory types of arthritis do put you at risk of developing osteoporosis, a bone mineral density test isn’t typically used to diagnose arthritis. It is used to detect early signs of bone loss/osteoporosis.
However, if you do feel pain or stiffness in your joints, your doctor may recommend other screening tests that would be specific to your area of pain instead — for example, a knee screening test for osteoarthritis in your knee joints.
The screening tests are generally safe as they are non-invasive, and are vital to the early detection of certain musculoskeletal issues. Do ask your orthopaedist for recommendations on which screening test would be most appropriate for you.
Screening tests cannot be claimed by Medisave or insurance.
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