A DEXA Scan very accurately measures bone density in the spine, hip or entire body. It usually takes about 10 minutes and is an easy, entirely painless procedure - similar to an x-ray. Yet, the amount of radiation used to complete the scan is one-tenth the amount of a chest x-ray. Usually, the lower back and hip are scanned because these are the most common fracture points for those with osteoporosis. Scan results will show bone mineral density loss in its beginning stages.

Our Camp Hill office DEXA Scan is one of the most accurate ways to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis. Someone who has osteopenia has a lower than normal bone mineral density. As time passes, osteopenia can turn into osteoporosis which literally means porous bone. Often, people with osteoporosis don’t know they have it until they experience a bone fracture. One in two women as well as one in five men will experience broken bones caused by osteoporosis. These fractures are painful and can be life threatening. The most dangerous and debilitating osteoporotic break is a hip fracture.

Your OIP doctor may recommend a DEXA Scan if you

• Are a female past menopause
• Are a smoker
• Drink a lot of caffeinated or carbonated beverages
• Are small in stature and frame
• Have diabetes melititus
• Have Lupus
• Have rheumatoid arthritis
• Have hyperthyroidism
• Have asthma
• Have multiple sclerosis
• Do not exercise
• Have a history of fractures
• Have taken steroids or anticonvulsants
• Have a family history of osteoporosis
• Have an eating disorder

Today, osteopenia and osteoporosis are
treatable which is why it is important to
catch either condition as soon as possible.