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Bone Density Scan in Denver
Understanding bone density is critical to our health as we age. We specialize in DEXA bone density exams to gain clear images of your bones and diagnose bone conditions.
Get a DEXA Bone Density Scan in Denver
Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry, called DEXA, is a scientific way of measuring bone density. DEXA uses low-dose X-rays from different angles projected at bones in the spine, hip, or wrist. Low-dose X-ray determines the density or mass of the bone. Other names for this test are Bone Mineral Density (BMD) or Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The dose of the x-ray is so minimal that the technologist sits next to you during the entire exam.
Bone density is important for health. Our peak bone mass is usually achieved in young adults between 25-30. This peak density varies between women and men and among different ethnicities. We assume your peak bone mass by comparing your density to an extensive database, which includes women or men of similar height, weight, and ethnic groups. Therefore, there are different database references for Caucasian women compared to African American men.
When Should I Have a Bone Density Scan?
The International Society of Bone Densitometry (ISCD) and the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) recommends bone density scans to start by:
- Age 65 for most women
- Age 70 for most men of average risk
The radiologist may schedule a woman as early as age 50 for a low bone density screening since most women become menopausal after this. The radiologist uses menopausal and family history risk factors to see if she needs a DEXA test. If a woman does not take hormone replacement therapy and has a family history of osteoporosis, she may need a low bone density screening earlier. However, if a woman takes hormone replacements and doesn't have a family history of osteoporosis and other risk factors, she may be able to wait until age 65.
Who Will Be Reading My Bone Density Scan?
At The Women's Imaging Center, our specialized radiologists are certified by the International Society of Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). They have undergone additional rigorous training and certification specifically to interpret complex medical diagnostic imaging scans. This process is unlike most other radiology centers which perform the examination and rely primarily on the machine's software to construct the report. Our radiologists recognize when a patient's positioning may affect the test results or if the bone mass seems too low for the patient's Body Mass Index (BMI). Denver's most experienced radiologists will be interpreting your imaging scan.
Meet Our Specialists
Kelly McAleese, M.D.
Timothy Colt, M.D.
Barbara Jaegar, M.D.
John Lewin, M.D.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Density Scans
A Bone Density Scan is technically called Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). It uses low-dose X-rays from different angles projected at bones in the spine, hip, or wrist to measure the density or mass of the bones and test for osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Other names for this test are Bone Mineral Density (BMD) or Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
A bone density scan, or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), is a simple and painless test that measures bone mineral density. For the test, we will ask you to lie on a padded table and remove any jewelry, metal objects, or clothing that might interfere with the scan. The technician will position you carefully so that the part of your body being scanned is between two X-ray machines. These machines emit low-level X-rays that are absorbed differently by bone and soft tissue.
You will need to lie still and hold your breath for a few seconds while the X-rays are taken. The process is painless and only takes a few minutes. After the scan is complete, the technician will review the images and ensure they are high enough quality to accurately measure your bone density.
At the very least, increase your weight-bearing or resistive exercises. Not all exercise is capable of achieving this. Walking up a hill carrying a backpack will improve bone density, while biking will decrease your density. Biking is not resistive since you use a machine to decrease your work. The muscles are not resisting a force.
Also, be sure to take enough Vitamin D3. Taking 1,000 IU/day is enough for most healthy adults, but some may need more. If there is a medical reason why you may not be able to absorb Vitamin D appropriately (like with celiac disease) or convert it to its active form (liver disease), you may want to have your vitamin D3 level measured.
Many medications are available today that improve bone density. These medications work by reversing the proportion of bone turnover or anabolic building new bone (PTH). Bone is a dynamic organ — it is constantly building up by osteoblasts or breaking down (called remodeling) by osteoclasts. The balance of building and breaking down is normal. Specialists have discovered that by slowing the caustic activity, the blastic activity wins. This results in increased bone density.
Medicines called bisphosphonates are common for treating low bone mass. Bisphosphonates help decrease the rate of bone loss. This process can take around five years to see an increase in bone density. The most common bisphosphonates include Fosamax and Actonel. Other medicines like Boniva can be given as a pill or IV infusion quarterly. Prolia can be used in people with decreased kidney function or in patients who can't take oral medications. Another drug, Reclast, uses IV infusion once yearly. Other anabolic medicines help "build new bone," like Forteo. We recommend all patients speak with their radiologist or primary doctor before taking a new medication.
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