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How are Your Bones Today?
This test will let you know
by Michelle Gibeault Traub, R.D.
You have check-ups for your eyes, teeth, breasts, and skin. You probably even know your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure off the top of your head. But, do you know how your bones measure up?
My Bones Feel Healthy
You may assume that your bones are healthy simply because they don’t hurt. But, the truth is you can’t “feel” your bones weakening. And, although some people with advanced osteoporosis do have pain in their back and hip, most people don’t have any indication that anything is wrong. The only way to learn how healthy and strong your bones are is to have them tested through a bone mineral density (BMD) test (or scan).
Risky Business
Traditionally, bone density testing is recommended for individuals with strong “risk factors” for osteoporosis (see Table 1), or for women who are over the age of 65. But, this recommendation may be far too conservative, since women in their 20s and 30s have been found to have porous bones. In addition, when factoring in poor diet, smoking, widespread use of certain medications, and our sedentary lifestyles, the majority of the population is likely at risk for poor bone health well before they reach their 60s. (See also “Piling on the Pills”)
This Test is Pain Free!
Some health tests are all too easy to avoid because they are painful or time-consuming. This isn’t the case with a bone density test. In fact, in the most common type of this test, Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), you simply lie on a padded table while a beam of energy is sent through your spine and hip. For many busy women, it is actually a welcomed opportunity to just relax and lie still for 5-10 minutes.
Cash in on Free Bone Density Screenings
The only catch to having a bone density scan is that some insurance companies will not cover the test unless you have clearly documented risk factors (like age, prior fractures, or certain diseases). However, the peace of mind of knowing your bones are strong could be worth the cost of the test (~$150). Besides, many health fairs and clinics around the country offer free bone density screenings. Using portable equipment, a technician quickly scans your ankle bone to give you your “t-score”. The results are not quite as accurate as the more thorough tests conducted in a physician's office, but some scanners (such as the GE Achilles) have accuracy rates close to 95%. Regardless, all bone tests are a good first step in assessing your bone health. Remember to always discuss test results with your doctor so you fully understand the best maintenance or treatment plan.
Finding Free Tests
This month the National Osteoporosis Foundation is sponsoring bone density screens check out their Online Calendar
You can also search on Google.com for "Free Bone Density Tests" to locate screenings in your area.
Knowledge is Power
Whatever your risk factors may be, having a bone density scan is a good investment in your health. The results can give you confidence that your current routine is working for your bones, or could be the wake-up call that helps you to make necessary changes before it is too late.
Table 1: Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
Gender (females are at greatest risk)
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Age (bone strength decreases with age)
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Body size (having a thin, small frame increases risk)
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Ethnicity (Caucasians and Asians have highest risk)
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Hormone Levels (loss of estrogen through menopause and low testosterone levels can increase bone loss )
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Poor Diet (low calcium, low vitamin D, high sodium, high protein diets all contribute to poor bone quality)
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Lifestyle Choices (lack of exercise, smoking, and abusing alcohol lead to bone loss)
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Chronic Diseases (eating disorders, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, depression, Cushing’s syndrome, arthritis, autoimmune disease, etc.)
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Medications (SEE “Piling on the Pills”)
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References
National Osteoporosis Foundation. Boning Up on Osteoporosis: A Guide to Prevention and Treatment. 2005.
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Published by circle of health (formerly nw | health and bone)
Copyright © 2007 Thompson Brands. All rights reserved.
circle of health does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. circle of health compiles information from a variety of public sources to provide individuals with the tools to actively and naturally promote bone health and other related women's health issues. We encourage the broad use of the web to provide additional information. Consult your physician or other health professional in regard to specific medical conditions. |
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