|
|
Osteoporosis
is a very common condition among older individuals, particularly
older women. As we age, we lose bone density and our bones
become fragile. This process is accelerated in women after
menopause. In people with osteoporosis, a relatively minor
fall or other accident can lead to painful and disabling
fractures of the spine, hip, and other sites.
Now that effective medical therapy is available, diagnosing
osteoporosis has become the important first step to controlling
or reversing the condition before the patient suffers
from a fracture.
Bone Densitometry or DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry)
is the best way to diagnose and evaluate the degree of
osteoporosis. Scanning is performed of the lumbar spine
and of one hip. The bone densities are calculated and
graphed relative to normal control data. Those with bone
densities significantly lower (more than 2.5 SD) than
the average bone density of a young adult are diagnosed
with osteoporosis. A more moderate degree of osteoporosis
is called osteopenia.
More information about Osteoporosis can be obtained by
visiting the website of the National
Osteoporosis Foundation. |
|
Bone
Densitometry / DEXA Scan is available at:
Marietta Imaging Center 770-792-1234
Piedmont Mountainside Hospital 706-301-5401
Cartersville Medical Center 770-606-2210. |
|
