Signs You Should Undergo Bone Density Testing

A bone density test provides vital insights into your skeletal health, often before issues become severe. Many people unknowingly live with weakening bones, a silent condition that impacts millions each year.

This test measures your bone strength and can detect osteoporosis in its early stages. Knowing when to get tested is key to safeguarding your long-term health. Certain risk factors and symptoms indicate when testing is necessary, helping you take proactive steps.

1.   Age-Related Risk Factors

Age plays a big role in deciding when to get a bone density test. Women over 65 and men over 70 should have regular screenings. However, younger people might need testing sooner.

This is especially true for women who have gone through menopause. This is because hormonal changes during this time can speed up bone loss.

Men with low testosterone are also at higher risk. As we age, hormonal changes in both men and women can gradually make bones weaker and more fragile.

2.   Family History and Genetics

Your family’s medical history can reveal important clues about your bone health. If your family has osteoporosis or has had fractures, your chances of developing it are higher.

Genetics also plays a big role in bone strength. Some people inherit genes that make their bones weaker.

Ethnic background matters too—Caucasian and Asian women are at the highest risk. However, people of all backgrounds can face bone issues.

Knowing your family history helps doctors understand your personal risk and recommend the right care.

3.   Previous Fractures and Injuries

A history of fractures can be a warning sign of weakened bones. Breaking bones easily, even from minor falls or bumps, may indicate underlying density issues. Fractures like these should always be investigated.

Compression fractures in the spine are particularly concerning, as they often occur without obvious trauma. Symptoms such as back pain or height loss may point to spinal fractures.

Similarly, wrist fractures after age 50 and hip fractures—one of the most serious concerns—are red flags. Any unusual fracture pattern should prompt bone density testing.

4.   Medical Conditions That Affect Bones

Some health conditions can increase the need for bone density testing. For example, rheumatoid arthritis affects both your joints and bones. Other inflammatory conditions can also weaken your bones over time.

Chronic illnesses like diabetes, kidney disease, and liver problems also impact bone health.

Kidney disease makes it harder for your body to process calcium. Meanwhile, liver problems can block vitamin D absorption.

Thyroid issues, especially an overactive thyroid, can speed up bone loss. Cancer treatments can also damage bone tissue.

Eating disorders like anorexia can severely weaken bones. Digestive problems that prevent your body from absorbing nutrients can have a similar effect.

If you have any of these conditions, it is important to keep a close eye on your bone health.

5.   Medications That Weaken Bones

Long-term use of certain medications can negatively impact bone density. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are among the most concerning, as they significantly accelerate bone loss.

Even short-term use of these drugs can affect bone health, with higher doses posing an even greater risk. Other medications, like blood thinners and some seizure treatments, can also weaken bones.

Cancer therapies are known to damage bone tissue. Meanwhile, proton pump inhibitors reduce calcium absorption and hinder bone-building processes.

Prolonged use of these medications increases the risk of fractures.

6.   Lifestyle Risk Factors

Your daily habits play a crucial role in maintaining bone health. Smoking accelerates bone loss at any age by interfering with the body’s ability to build strong bones.

Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption damages bones. It does so by preventing proper calcium absorption and increasing the risk of falls.

A sedentary lifestyle also contributes to bone weakness over time. Engaging in weight-bearing exercises helps strengthen bone tissue, while inactivity leads to gradual bone loss.

Poor nutrition is another key factor. Insufficient calcium intake and vitamin D deficiency can significantly weaken bones.

7.   Physical Symptoms and Warning Signs

Certain physical symptoms can point to underlying bone density issues. Unexplained back pain may be a sign of compression fractures, while gradual height loss often signals spinal problems.

Posture changes, such as a curved or hunched back, can indicate vertebral fractures. They tend to develop slowly over time.

Dental issues may also reflect bone health concerns; loose teeth or gum disease can suggest jawbone loss.

Frequent fractures from minor incidents are another red flag. Breaking bones during normal activities or experiencing easy bruising may signal weakened bones.

8.   Hormonal Changes and Deficiencies

Hormones are essential for keeping bones strong. In women, low estrogen levels—especially after early menopause—can cause bones to weaken quickly.

Irregular or missed periods in young women, particularly athletes, can also lead to bone problems.

For men, low testosterone can make bones weaker. Hormone treatments, whether for men or women, can also affect bone health and should be monitored.

Thyroid and parathyroid issues can impact how the body uses calcium and builds bones. So, regular bone density checks are important for people with these conditions.

Bone Density Test in St. Peters, O’Fallon, & Wentzville, MO

Protect your future mobility by recognizing the signs that indicate the need for bone density testing. Early detection leads to better treatment outcomes, while delaying could result in serious fractures. Do not wait for problems to arise—your bone health deserves attention now. Simple lifestyle changes can have a big impact, and medical guidance will help you take the best steps forward.

Bone density testing, such as a DEXA scan, provides valuable information. This simple test can guide important health decisions. Trust our experienced team at Advanced Bone & Joint to help protect your skeletal health. We provide comprehensive evaluation and osteoporosis treatment options.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (636) 241-9807 or use our appointment request form.

We look forward to serving you!