Useful extras
Test your bones
Although it may sound somewhat scary or painful, having your bone mineral density tested is anything-but. This test is simple, pain-free, and non-invasive. And you can even keep your clothes on! What’s it for? It can determine your actual bone density and predict your risk for developing osteoporosis.
Depending on your life stage, there are different recommendations for whether you need this test or how often. For example, it’s a good idea for women at menopause to schedule a test every two years.
Today, do a little checking to find out if you should schedule a bone mineral density test. Then, make an appointment. If you discover that your bone mass is lower than normal, you can reduce your risk of osteoporosis by making healthy eating and exercise changes now. (To learn more about osteoporosis and risk factors, check out the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.)
9 comments Have something to add? Share it here.
Log in or join the community to get involved.
I had a bone density test and I am 54. I have osteopena. It is more than likely due to long term thyroid medication therapy.
65 is too old to have this done for the first time! I ASKED my doctor to do this when I hit menopause, just for baseline data. Imagine my shock at learning I have both osteopenia and osteoporosis in various sites. This was almost 5 years ago. With meds, calcium, vitamin D, and exercise I am building bone, and not losing as much. I encourage ALL the midlife women I know to get this done right away!
Had this test done – was one of the easiest tests to take: simple and pain free. My results were that my bones are normal for a 55 year old. Way to go!
hello every one
Had bone density test. I am in the middle of the good and osteoporosus. I have started calcium supplement and increase of dietary calcium.
The easiest and least painful test I have ever had. My mother also had osteoporosus and my sister has osteopinia, but my bone density was just fine. Yeah!
I had mine done with my mammaogram. Same room, same technician, just a few minutes longer!! Easy cheesy nice & easy..
Maryj64 is right—no pain & it doesn’t take long—I had it done cos my mom has severe osteoporosus (sp)—but I eat healthy & exercise and am trying to lose weight.
They compare your bones to that of a 25 year old—even though I’m 52, my bone density is better than a 25 year old—yeah!!! It’s not all in the genes….
Had my bone density checked – nothing to it – doesn’t take a lot of time – results were great!