What a DXA Bone Density Test Is
DXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) bone density testing is ordered to determine
if you have osteoporosis or low bone mass. The DXA scan is a safe, painless and quick
test that measures bone strength and predicts fracture risk before the development
of osteoporosis. This allows for effective preventive therapy to be instituted and
helps prevent fractures. Bone density tests are also used to monitor the response to
particular medications. According to The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), almost
34 million Americans are estimated to have low bone mineral density, placing them at an
increased risk for fracture. Most individuals with osteoporosis do not know they have
the disease until they suffer an obvious fracture.
Vertebral compression fractures are caused by the vertebrae collapsing. They often
occur without significant pain but result in height loss, and are a sign of osteoporosis.
Studies confirm that up to 75% of compression fractures of the spine are present without
pain. The same DXA equipment used for bone density testing can obtain a picture of the
middle and lower spine to allow a radiologist to evaluate your spine for compression fractures.
The presence of a vertebral compression fracture further increases the risk of additional
fractures. This important piece of clinical information will allow your physician to better
treat the condition.
Invision Sally Jobe offers DXA bone density scans at several of our outpatient centers in
the South Denver Metro area of Colorado. Each of these imaging centers utilizes state-of-the-art Hologic
DXA equipment for both DXA bone density and vertebral fracture assessment.
Technologists are certified by the International Society of Clinical Densitometry in bone
densitometry and provide patients with NOF educational materials and counsel them on osteoporosis
prevention and general treatment options.