Bone Density Testing
Most people think of bones as hard and lifeless when, in fact, they are living tissue. Just like muscles, bones get stronger the more you use them. Unfortunately, as women age, it becomes more difficult to keep bones strong, especially after menopause, when ovaries produce less estrogen. Approximately 50% of women over the age of 50 develop osteoporosis and are at risk of an osteoporosis-related fracture. The good news is that osteoporosis can be prevented and there are painless, non-invasive tests that can help diagnose osteoporosis for women who are at risk.
At Mount Carmel, we offer a variety of tools to help keep bones strong and healthy, including bone densitometry, nutritional counseling and physical therapy. We also offer both kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty — advanced surgical options for correcting vertebral fractures.
Mount Carmel offers a variety of painless, noninvasive tests and instructive tools that can measure bone mass and help prevent, diagnose or treat osteoporosis. Among the available tests are:
- Quantitative Ultrasound Screening - Measures bone density at the heel using sound waves rather than radiation. An ideal way to detect low bone density and identify those who would benefit from a DEXA scan.
- DEXA Scan - Can detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, predict the chance of a future fracture, determine the rate of bone loss, and monitor the effects of treatment. A physician referral is required.
Our women's health nurse practitioners offer counseling to help patients slow bone loss and increase bone thickness through diet, exercise and more. We also offer a Physical Therapy Program for Women that includes an evaluation with an experienced physical therapist and a personalized exercise program to help improve posture and strength, prevent falls and decrease the risk for fractures.