Bone Density Scans

[Sara Emily]

Not long ago, I had my first major bone density scan. I thought I would pass with flying colors since I eat well and exercise in a variety of ways. I was SHOCKED to learn that I was borderline - osteoporosis, and am taking steps to work harder at bone building, as well as being grateful that I learned about it early! That test runs about $260, and insurance does not pay, but it was worth it to know that I need work in this area.

A couple of days later, I got the portable test done somewhere else for free (normal cost for it is $25!), where they strap your foot and ankle to the machine and test in a matter of minutes. The result was EXACTLY the same, and I was impressed with its accuracy. Have any of you had this test and what has been YOUR experience with its accuracy? It would be helpful to know! THANKS!

[gabbyh]

Sara Emily,
Thanks for your very useful information. I saw the ankle strap test advertised and wondered about it's acuracy. This test is one every woman over a certain age should have. Unfortunately, as a registered nurse, I haven't had one yet, but will look to do so in the near future. Sometimes nurses are the worst for this sort of thing ;-} My Mom just did hers, and it was within range. Thanks again.

[ewatkins]

At what age should you have one of these? Does it depend on your risk factors?

[Sara Emily]

The appropriate age varies as to your doctor's opinion on the subject, I've found! Most physicians wait to order one until a woman is menopausal and a few even wait until she is post-menopausal. Personally, I think that is rather late to have your very FIRST one as, if you are weak in this area, you have waited a long time to find out and it becomes harder to correct, putting you at greater risk. At that point, they want to give you the presciption DRUGS like Fosimax. If you have an initial scan in your early to mid forties, and it looks reasonably good, then there probably is no need to have another until you are in or just over the "change."

I am "peri-menopausal," skating on the border of the great adventure of menopause, and in a place where my hormone levels are fluctuating a lot, creating some interesting symptoms. Since I am quite thin, small boned, and have never had children, my wise dr. went ahead and ordered the test, for which I will always be grateful! Now, I can work hard on bone building BEFORE they get worse and problems arise. I think that's another reason these portable scans may be a great idea. You don't usually need a dr.'s order for them and the comfort of knowing where you stand is worth a lot! More and more ob/gyn drs. are starting to use them, as are pharmacists, trained in the procedure. If you have several of the risk factors, it is worth thinking about!