Osteoporosis
Examinations and Tests
A diagnosis of osteoporosis is based on your medical history, a physical examination, and a test to measure your bone thickness (density). During a physical examination, your health professional will:
- Measure your height and compare the results with past measurements.
- Examine your body for evidence of previous broken bones, such as changes in the shape of your long bones and spine
. See an illustration of a compression fracture of the spine
A bone mineral density test measures the mineral density (such as calcium) in your bones using a special X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, or ultrasound. From this information, your health professional can estimate the strength of your bones. See an illustration of a bone mineral density test
Routine urine and blood tests can rule out other medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or Cushing's syndrome, that can cause bone loss. In men, blood tests to measure testosterone levels can see whether low levels are causing bone loss.
If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, you may need to follow up regularly with your health professional to monitor your condition.
Early Detection
If you or your health professional thinks you may be at risk for developing osteoporosis, you may have a screening test to check your bone thickness. A screening test may be advisable if you have:
- A fracture in a minor injury that may have been caused by osteoporosis.
- Another medical condition that is known to cause bone thinning.
- Risk factors for or symptoms that suggest osteoporosis.
The Osteoporosis Society of Canada recommends that people 65 years and older have a bone mineral density (BMD) test to screen for osteoporosis.9 If you are at increased risk for osteoporotic fractures, screening should begin earlier. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and whether you should be tested for osteoporosis before age 65.
Most experts recommend that the decision to screen women age 60 and younger be made on an individual basis, depending on the risk of developing osteoporosis and whether the test results will help with treatment decisions. To help you decide whether you should be tested for osteoporosis, see:
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| Author: | Douglas Dana Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: February 21, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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