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Healthy Bone Scan Films

The bone density test, sometimes called a DXA scan, measures grams of calcium and minerals in a segment of bone to determine if you have osteoporosis or are at risk for developing it. Your bone density score is an accurate indicator of whether your bones are likely to fracture. Your score may reflect bone density in your entire body or in specific areas of your body. Your desired outcome is a healthy bone density scan.

  1. Bone Density Scores

    • Your bone density is normal if it is above -1. You are osteopenic, or may be developing osteoporosis, if your bone density is between -1 and -2.5. If your bone density is less than -2.5, you have osteoporosis. Your bone density score can be improved if you have osteoporosis or are osteopenic.

      Serum levels of osteocalcin are one indication of bone density. Combining blood and urine analysis with measurements of bone density might be a more accurate assessment of osteoporosis or osteopenia.

    Nutrition

    • A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, with sufficient sources of potassium and omega-3 fatty acids, is best for postmenopausal women at risk for osteoporosis. Sunlight between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. is the best source of vitamin D, along with milk and dairy products, which also contain omega-3 fatty acids. Plenty of potassium-bearing fruits and vegetables also helps reduce calcium loss. Spinach, cantaloupe, a few almonds, bananas, milk and margarine rich in omega-3 fatty acids are good nutritional choices for an osteopenic postmenopausal woman.

      Quit smoking if you are a smoker. Reduce alcohol consumption if you drink alcoholic beverages.

    Supplements

    • Calcium citrate is more readily absorbed by the human body than calcium carbonate and is recommended. Calcium carbonate may be excreted in the urine. Serum potassium is directly proportional to serum calcium and the excretion of calcium. A diet rich in potassium citrate from fruits and vegetables directly reduces the amount of calcium secreted in the urine, which is related to the amount of bone lost. If your serum potassium is slightly low, you may benefit from a potassium salt alternative.

    Medication

    • Bisphosphonates, alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), ibandronate (Boniva) and zoledronic acid (Reclast) are the most common medications prescribed for osteoporosis treatment. Hormone therapy may include estrogen and raloxifene (Evista), which reduces or prevents osteoporosis. Biphosphonates may have fewer side effects and interact less with other medication. Healthy bones are constantly creating new cells. Bisphosphonates decrease the risk of osteoporosis. The bone density scan monitors the effectiveness of bisphosphonate therapy.

    Exercise

    • Resistance exercise and muscle relaxation exercises strengthen your body and increase muscle tone, reducing the possibility of fractured bones. Physical activity also improves your balance. Exercise makes you less likely to fall and break a bone. Exercise makes your body more resistant to osteoporosis.

    Healthy Bone Density

    • Healthy bone density scores can be achieved through diet, exercise and nutritional supplements if you are osteopenic. A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, potassium and omega-3 fatty acids decreases the risk of osteoporosis. Flexible resilient muscles reduces the possibility of falling and fractures. Calcium citrate is the best absorbed calcium supplement. Monitor your progress toward healthy bones with an annual bone density test.

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