May is Osteoporosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about bone health and the importance of early detection. If you’re concerned about osteoporosis risk or have a family history of bone disease, understanding DEXA scanning and bone density testing could be the first step toward protecting your long-term orthopedic health.
Southwoods Health is committed to providing comprehensive bone health screening and management to help patients stay informed about their osteoporosis risk.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease characterized by decreased bone density and increased fragility, making bones more susceptible to fractures from minor falls or even routine movements. Unlike conditions that cause pain or obvious symptoms, osteoporosis often develops without noticeable symptoms and is commonly referred to as a “silent disease.”
Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, including:
- Age (especially adults over 50)
- Postmenopausal women
- Family history of osteoporosis or bone disease
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Low calcium or vitamin D intake
- Certain medications or medical conditions
While osteoporosis can affect anyone, postmenopausal women face particularly high risk due to declining estrogen levels, which play a crucial role in maintaining bone density.
What Is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is the gold standard diagnostic test for measuring bone mineral density. This quick, painless and non-invasive imaging test uses low-dose X-rays to assess bone strength and identify osteoporosis before fractures occur.
During a DEXA scan, patients lie on a padded table while a scanning arm passes over the body, typically focusing on the hips and spine. The procedure generally takes between 10 and 30 minutes, requires no preparation and involves minimal radiation exposure.
DEXA scans generate a T-score, which measures your bone density compared to healthy young adults and helps determine your fracture risk.
Why Early Screening Matters
Early detection through DEXA scanning is essential because osteoporosis often progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Common fracture sites include the hip, spine and wrist. Hip and vertebral fractures, in particular, can significantly impact mobility, independence and overall quality of life.
Identifying low bone density early allows patients and healthcare providers to work together to develop a prevention and treatment strategy. This may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, exercise programs or medication to slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and help maintain an active lifestyle.
Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?
The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends bone density screening for:
- Women age 65 and older
- Men age 70 and older
- Postmenopausal women under 65 with additional risk factors.
Adults with a history of fractures, those taking long-term corticosteroids and individuals with conditions affecting bone health should also discuss screening with their healthcare provider.
If you’re unsure whether you should be screened, talking with a primary care provider or orthopedic specialist can help determine the best approach based on your individual risk factors.
Managing Bone Health After DEXA Results
Maintaining bone health involves a multi-faceted approach. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake supports bone strength, while weight-bearing exercises like walking, dancing or resistance training help stimulate bone formation. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption further protect bone integrity.
For patients diagnosed with osteoporosis or low bone density, your healthcare team may recommend prescription medications such as bisphosphonates to slow bone loss. Regular follow-up DEXA scans monitor treatment effectiveness and guide ongoing management decisions. Our orthopedic specialists and primary care providers work collaboratively to ensure comprehensive bone health management is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Your Partner in Bone Health
Southwoods Health offers an integrated approach to bone health through orthopedic expertise, primary care, physical therapy and pain management services. Whether you need preventive screening, post-fracture rehabilitation or ongoing osteoporosis management, our multidisciplinary team ensures coordinated, evidence-based care.
This Osteoporosis Awareness Month, make bone health a priority. Schedule an appointment with Southwoods Health and take the first step toward stronger bones and a healthier future.