Bone Density Testing | Mineral Density Testing

A bone density test measures the amount of calcium and other bone mineral content in a particular section of bone.

The more mineral content you have, the more dense your bones are in relation to others who have more, or less. Stronger, or dense, bones tend to break less, and weaker, or less dense, bones tend to break more.

As we get older, the amount of calcium in our bones diminishes, which is why elderly people are at greater risks for bone breaks, fractures, etc. Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become brittle and break, is a major concern for our older population of senior citizens. Thus, it is important that every senior citizen has this test done to determine the amount of bone density they have so recommendations can be made to take calcium supplements, or provide information on preventive measures a person can take to minimize the chances of bone breakage.

At Trinitas Diagnostic Imaging, we can help you through your bone/mineral density testing in a timely manner, with no injections or special preparations needed.

Common locations for bone density tests are the lower spine, the hip and wrist and forearm bones.

The equipment for measuring bone density can include a DXA Scan (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scans), or a Quantitative CT Scan.

Scoring Your Test

At the conclusion of your test, you will get a "T-Score" and a "Z Score" and your doctor will receive the results like these:

T-Score

  • Above -1 (normal)
  • -1 to -2.5 (you may have osteopenia, which can lead to osteoporosis)
  • Below -2.5 (you probably have osteoporosis)

NOTE:
The scores above apply to white post-menopausal women, while women of color, or men, may have different thresholds for osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Z-Score

This score is determined by other factors that may be applied to you because of your sex, your age, your weight, etc. that might indicate something other than age is contributing to an abnormal amount of bone loss. For instance, if your Z-Score is less than 1.5, it's quite possible that other factors are involved.

Insurance

You should check with your insurance provider to determine if they will pay for the bone/mineral density testing, or if it's something you will have to pay for out-of-pocket if they won't cover it and you still want to have it done. There are certain instances where your insurance company may cover testing they normally might not cover, such as hyperthyroidism, certain spinal abnormalities or fractures, etc. Call us and we'll be happy to explain further, or give you more information.

Bone / Mineral Density Hours of Operation

  • Monday 9:00am - 5pm
  • Tuesday 9:00am - 5pm
  • Wednesday 9:00am - 5pm
  • Thursday 9:00am - 5pm
  • Friday 9:00am - 5pm
  • Saturday Closed

Questionnaires

Osteoporosis Questionnaire

Tests We Perform