Bone density measuring apparatus
There are various ways to measure the bone density, such as X-ray plain photographs, ultrasonic equipment, etc. There are also various parts such as the spine, forearm (for our conventional equipment), neck of femur, calcaneus, or metacarpal bone (finger bone) to be measured. We introduced a device that uses the DXA method (dual energy X-ray absorption measurement method), which is highly accurate and used for diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
The DXA method is a way to measure the bone components using X-rays with two different energy levels.
Inspection/measurement
Inspection
Lie on your back for about 5 min. The exposure dose of X-ray is very small, about 1/5–1/10 of that of chest X-ray.
Measuring part
The lumbar spine and hip joint (femoral neck)
Measuring the lumbar spine and hip joint (femoral neck) is recommended according to the guidelines for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Bone density is measured to detect a decrease in bone density at an early stage to prevent osteoporosis that causes fractures as well as to provide appropriate treatment.
Importance of measuring bone density and risk of osteoporosis
It is important to measure bone density regularly.
You are more likely to have osteoporosis if you fall in any of the following categories:
- Postmenopausal women or you have stopped menstruation by treatment
- Patients on dialysis
- You have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, or diabetes
- You recently had a surgery
- Lack of exercise/excess exercise during youth
- Addicted smokers/You drink excessive alcohol, etc.