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Osteoporosis Specialist

Associates in Women's Health

Gynecologists & Aesthetic Specialists located in Cincinnati, OH

Osteoporosis is a public health threat that affects over 44 million Americans, according to the New York State Department of Health. DEXA®, or a bone-density scan, tests your bone density and measures minerals in your bones to check for conditions such as osteoporosis. Modern technology allows for advanced testing. The Associates in Women’s Health provide DEXA scans right in their Cincinnati, Ohio office. Call or click to book your bone-density scan today and be proactive with your health.

Osteoporosis Q & A

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone condition involving porous or weakened bones with a loss of minerals and a higher susceptibility to fractures.

With osteoporosis, the most commonly affected bones are the hip, wrist, and spine.

The cause of osteoporosis isn’t clear, but calcium is the mineral that hardens and strengthens bones, and with age, your bones can lose calcium and thin. If bones break down faster than it rejuvenates in the natural process of bone rebuilding, bone loss is the result.

Many experts believe that osteoporosis is more common in women than men because women’s bones are typically lighter and less dense. Women also experience hormonal changes after menopause that can speed up the loss of bone mass.

What is a DEXA bone density scan?

A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is a bone density test to measure the number of minerals in your bones, or your BMD, bone mineral density.

A DEXA scan tests how strong your bones are. It’s the only way to know for sure if you have osteoporosis.

The DEXA scan works on your hip, spine, or forearm and ends in as little as 10-20 minutes. It’s painless, and the low amount of radiation used is safe.

You lie on an open X-ray table as the scanner passes over you. The DEXA machine delivers two X-ray beams of different energy levels to determine the number of X-rays that pass through your bone from each of the beams, revealing bone strength.

After your test, you can resume your daily activities immediately.

What are the benefits of a bone density scan?

A bone density scan is an excellent preventive care method to assess your bone health.

Vitamin D helps build and protect your bones, and a bone density scan might also reveal weak bones and a possible connection to a vitamin D deficiency as well.

While doctors often perform the test for men and women over 55, it’s suitable for younger people as well, especially if you already have an underlying medical condition that can affect your bones.

The Associates in Women’s Health team offer in-office DEXA scans and can typically provide same-day results, so you’ll know right away.

Visit the Associates in Women’s Health team for your DEXA bone density scan and discover ways to strengthen your bones. Call or click to book online today.