Bone mineral density test Health Article

Definition

A bone mineral density (BMD) test can help your health care provider confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis. The test can help in several ways:

• BMD testing is one of the most accurate ways to assess your bone health.
• When repeated over time, it can be used to monitor your rate of bone loss.
• It can detect osteoporosis at its earliest stage, so treatment can begin sooner.
• If you are being treated for osteoporosis, BMD testing can help your health care provider monitor your response to the treatment.

Alternative Names

BMD test; Bone density test; Bone densitometry

How the test is performed

Several different kinds of machines can do BMD testing. The most common methods use low-dose x-rays (about 1/10th the radiation dose of a chest x-ray).

While you are lying in on a cushioned table, a scanner passes over your body. Typically, the machine takes x-rays of your lower spine and hip. In most cases you won't need to undress.

There are portable machines that just measure the bone density in your wrist or heel, and some experts believe these are useful preliminary screening tools that can help identify people who may have osteoporosis. However, your bone density can differ from site to site within your body, so these machines may not give a true picture of your risk of a hip fracture.

How to prepare for the test

Remove any jewelry before the BMD test. Inform your health care provider if you may be pregnant.

How the test will feel

The scan is painless, although you will need to remain still during the test.