Bone Density Test | Women's Excellence, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Birmingham, West Bloomfield, Rochester MI

One of the most important processes that occurs in menopausal women is the loss of bone density, which can be determined through a bone density test. A woman’s bone density changes when the effects of hormonal loss are realized and a condition called osteopenia or osteoporosis can occur.

A bone mineral density (BMD) test measures the density of minerals (such as calcium) in your bones using a special X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan. This information is used to estimate the strength of your bones.

We all lose some bone mass as we age. Bones naturally become thinner (called osteopenia) as you grow older, because existing bone is broken down faster than new bone is made. As this occurs, our bones lose calcium and other minerals and become lighter, less dense, and more porous. This makes the bones weaker and increases the chance that they might break (fracture). Hip or spine fractures are very difficult and ultimately lead to severe consequences.

What do you need to know?

BMD is a necessary test to evaluate your skeletal structure and should be done every two years to determine your need for treatment. Contact Women’s Excellence to schedule an appointment for a bone density test.