During my teen years I had participated in many a diet plan, including crash dieting. I have read and have heard that a lot of bone damage occurs during the growing years when proper nutrition is not utilized. So, I bit the bullet and made an appointment to have my bones tested. Now some people, after hearing that I wanted to be tested for osteoporosis, questioned why would I be concerned about it at my age. I have since learned that knowing one's bone mass density at an earlier age may prevent or aid in the treatment.
Bone mass is assessed by the measuring of bone mineral density using bone densitometry.
This test uses dual energy X-ray technology that detects asymptomatic individuals for hip fracture. The heel is measured because its bone material is similar to that of the spine and hip where osteoporosis strikes the most. This test offers a highly accurate reading of bone stiffness, which in turn interprets the risk of osteoporotic fracture. While learning about my bone density, I also learned about the signs of osteoporosis, factors that cause osteoporosis, and life style changes for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Exercise regularly to keep bones and muscles strong and healthy.