Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) in Los Angeles — Early Detection for Stronger Bones

Prioritizing your health is essential at every age, but as we age, we need to take extra care of our well-being. Bones are the assets of your body that empower you not just physically, but also provide mental clarity and confidence when functioning correctly. Hence, it is crucial to take early preventive measures with the help of a bone density test to assess your skeletal strength. Early detection helps prevent weak bones, which are more susceptible to fractures and other complications.

At My Concierge MD, in Beverly Hills, we design bone density test with utmost care and precision that helps assess fracture risk and identify early bone loss. This test is credible to guide customized preventive strategies to protect your skeletal strength.

What is a Bone Density Test?

A bone density test, also referred to as bone mineral density (BMD) or a DEXA scan, assesses the concentration of minerals, specifically calcium, in critical areas of the skeleton, including the spine or hip. This test is a noninvasive imaging procedure used to identify the risk of osteoporosis. Bone densitometry, such as a dxa test, uses low dose x rays (ionizing radiation) to measure bone mineral content and assess bone strength.

We at My Concierge MD utilize dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) that assists in detecting osteopenia and quantifying bone strength. The bone density test determines bone mineral density by measuring how much x rays pass through bone and soft tissue, and the resulting x ray images help measure bone density and diagnose osteoporosis. It even broadens the crucial insight into monitoring osteoporosis treatment.

Significance of Bone Health: Why It Matters?

Usually, people become aware of their bone loss once they experience a severe fracture, as bone loss often remains silent. Low bone density increases the risk of bone fracture, including serious injuries like hip fracture and broken bones, due to weakened bones. The bone density test matters as it helps in various aspects, such as

Early Detection

A DEXA scan, also known as a bone density test, subtly assesses bone mineral density (BMD) by monitoring bone thinning long before any symptoms or fractures arise. Early detection will help you receive timely intervention, which can preserve your bone health. Early testing can also diagnose osteopenia, allowing for preventive measures before osteoporosis develops.

Risk Stratification

Our professional healthcare providers assess the Z-score and T-score of your test results to identify the risk of fractures with high precision and accuracy. A T-score evaluates a young adult’s bone density with that of a healthy individual of the same age and sex, while a Z-score compares it to others of the same sex and age. A T-score within 1 standard deviation of the young adult mean indicates normal bone density, while lower scores may indicate low bone mass or low bone density.

Our expert healthcare providers use this assessment to create a personalized treatment plan that lowers your risk of fracture. Bone density test results and bone density measurements help determine if you have reached your peak bone mass or if you are at risk for osteoporosis.

Monitoring

DEXA scan assists in the effectiveness of treatments by monitoring bone density. A bone density scan can be repeated periodically to track changes and guide treatment decisions. Our professionals utilize bone density tests to gauge alternative or adjustment treatments, thereby reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis and enhancing bone strength.

Prevention

Preventive measures play a significant role in optimal health, and with the help of a DEXA scan, we can enable proactive measures for our patients. These preventive measures include discussing medical alternatives, such as biophosphonates, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamin D and calcium, taking calcium supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises. These proactive measures significantly promote bone health.

What is Osteoporosis and Osteopenia?

When your bones are less dense and more porous, becoming more prone to fracture, this condition is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis makes your bones more brittle and weaker. A bone density test is the primary method used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk.

Osteopenia is a condition less severe than osteoporosis. In this condition, bone density is not low enough, similar to osteoporosis and is lower than usual.

Who are the Candidates for the Bone Density Test?

You should opt for a bone density test if you meet the following standards. Risk factors for osteoporosis include not only age and family history, but also other risk factors such as rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, liver disease, and spinal deformity, which can all contribute to decreased bone density and increased fracture risk.

• Women aged 65 or older
• Postmenopausal women under 65 with additional risk factors
• Men aged 70 or older
• Adults who have broken a bone after age 50
• People with a family history of osteoporosis
• Individuals with medical conditions or taking medications that affect bone health

Individuals at high risk for osteoporosis or fractures may require more frequent testing. In addition to standard DEXA scans, a peripheral device can be used for bone density screening at sites like the wrist or heel, especially in settings outside traditional hospitals. Some other factors that make you a good candidate for a bone density test include:

Height Loss

Those who are more likely to have a spinal compression fracture, such as those who have lost height (more than 1.5 inches), should consider a DEXA scan. During a DEXA scan, a vertebral fracture assessment can also be performed to detect hidden spinal fractures.

Steroid Medications

Some steroid medications, such as prednisone, are highly contributing to bone loss, and their prolonged use will make you prone to osteoporosis. Hence, if you are under steroid medications for a long time, you should choose a bone density test to ensure the preservation of your bone health.

What is My Concierge MD Approach for Bone Density Test?

Choosing My Concierge MD for your bone health is more than just testing. Our dedicated team offer a reliable commitment to premium preventive healthcare. Fulfilling your individual health needs through cutting-edge advancements and a tailored care plan is our top priority. We follow guidelines established by the World Health Organization for osteoporosis diagnosis and fracture risk assessment. Here’s why you should choose us

Personalized Executive Care

Your bone density at My Concierge MD is comprehensively evaluated with a holistic approach. It includes lifestyle assessment, imaging, risk profiling, and labs that allow us to scan your bone health with a 360° insight.

Innovative Imaging

We own the most reliable imaging centers that utilize high-accuracy and innovative DEXA technology for bone density tests, providing results with utmost precision. In certain cases, a CT scan may be used as an alternative method for measuring bone density, especially when more detailed imaging is required.

Professional Assessment

We have board-certified healthcare physicians with vast experience in endocrinology or internal medicine. They detect your Z-scores and T-scores in a DEXA scan, which interprets your fracture risk and future bone health.

Convenience

From the initial appointment to the follow-up schedule, our expert professionals offer a comprehensive and seamless service experience.  This lets you focus on your health rather than handling logistics. We ensure a smooth and efficient process.

How to Schedule Your Bone Density Test?

You can reach out to My Concierge MD in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills and schedule your consultation for a bone density test. Our care coordinator will assist you in providing instructions for pre-test requirements. Please inform your healthcare provider if you have recently received contrast material for another imaging test.

Your DEXA scan will be arranged at the imaging center to ensure accuracy and quality. The bone density test procedure is a quick and painless procedure with minimal radiation exposure. Once your results are received, our professional physicians will thoroughly assess them by examining the details of the evaluation. We provide a personalized action plan, including supplements and lifestyle recommendations, along with follow-up scans to support your ongoing health and wellness.

FAQs

Is a DEXA scan safe?

Yes, a DEXA scan utilizes X-ray radiation in low doses, which is almost negligible. Hence, it is relatively safe.

How long does a bone density test take?

The time of the exam depends on the areas that are scanned, such as the spine and hip. Usually, it takes 10 to 20 minutes and is quicker.

How to prepare for the bone density test?

Your healthcare provider will ask you to discontinue taking calcium or vitamin D supplements for 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate results. Also, avoid wearing metal products or jewelry during the test. It is important to remove all metal objects to prevent interference with the scan.

Who should avoid this test?

If you are a pregnant or lactating mother, you should not undergo bone density tests because of radiation. It is generally safe for other adults as the risks are minimal.