What does a DXA scan measure?

The DXA, or “Dual X-ray Absorptiometry”, is a quick and pain free scan that can tell you a lot about your body. It provides you with an in-depth analysis of your fat tissue, muscle mass and bone density.

Does osteoporosis cause pain if there are no fractures?

Pain is not a symptom of osteoporosis in the absence of fractures. Following a fracture, bones tend to heal within six to eight weeks but pain and other physical problems, such as pain and tiredness or fatigue, may continue.

When is the DXA scan better than conventional radiography?

The rate of unreadable vertebrae for DXA is lower than for radiographs. Effective dose of DXA is significantly lower than radiographs. Children prefer DXA to radiographs. Given the above, DXA should replace radiographs for paediatric vertebral fracture assessment.

What is the T-score for severe osteoporosis?

A T-score between −1 and −2.5 indicates that you have low bone mass, although not low enough to be diagnosed with osteoporosis. A T-score of −2.5 or lower indicates that you have osteoporosis. The greater the negative number, the more severe the osteoporosis.

Why would you have a DEXA scan?

Bone density scans, also known as DEXA scans, help to work out your risk of breaking a bone. They’re often used to help diagnose bone-related health problems, such as osteoporosis, or to assess the risk of getting them.

Do your joints ache with osteoporosis?

Pain in the joints like the hands, knee, hips, spine and/or neck. Stiffness in joints. Joint swelling, tenderness, bumps (bone spurs) Joint deformity.

Who needs a DEXA scan?

Who should get a bone-density scan? For women over 65 and men over 70, DEXA scans are only appropriate for those with moderate risk of fracture or when the results will change the patients care plan. Younger women and men ages 50 to 69 should consider the test if they have risk factors for serious bone loss.

What is the difference between DXA and DEXA?

What is a Bone Density Scan (DEXA,DXA)? Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DXA is today’s established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD).

What does an endocrinologist have to do with osteoporosis?

Endocrinologists specialize in treating and preventing bone loss and preventing fractures. In addition, endocrinologists treat disorders that may affect bones, such as hyperparathyroidism, low and high levels of calcium. Become familiar with osteoporosis risk factors.