Ultrasound Bone Density Scan
Advanced Bone Measurement Technology Heel Ultrasound Bone Densitometry available at Bournemouth Chiropractic Clinic for the monitoring of osteoporosis “brittle bones”.
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone fracture. The most common injuries in people with osteoporosis are: wrist fractures. hip fractures.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOPOROSIS
There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. This is why it is sometimes called the ‘silent epidemic’, but once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra.
WHY HAVE A BONE DENSITY ULTRASOUND SCAN?
To assess the density of your bones. When you have low bone density it is called osteopenia, when your bones are very low it is called Osteoporosis or brittle bones. Bones natural decline as you age, but that does not mean you will have osteoporosis.
If you have osteoporosis you are at risk of fracture if you fall. By having a scan you have a good prediction of the quality of your bones and we can advise you on the best action to take.
IS IT PAINFUL?
No. You simply insert your foot into the bone densitometry equipment and it is painless and safe. There is no radiation like X-Rays. It is safe, reliable and convenient.
THE PROCESS
We use ultrasound to estimate the bone density of your heel, as the heel bone contains a high percentage of the kind of bone most affected by osteoporosis. During an ultrasound scan, two soft rubber pads come in contact with your heel. These pads send and receive high-frequency sound waves through the heel bone. The test takes about one minute and is performed in a seated position, with your foot placed and comfortably secured in the ultrasound unit. For the sake of accuracy, it will be necessary for you to remove socks or stockings from that foot. No injections or invasive procedures are necessary. Your test results are processed immediately.
Along with information you provide about your family and medical history, lifestyle and diet, the results of the ultrasound test will be used to determine your risk of developing osteoporosis.
No radiation, Safe, Instant Results
Today, we are better equipped to detect and treat bone loss in its earliest stages. This can help prevent the disease or lessen its impact.
YOU ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO HAVE A SCAN IF YOU HAVE/HAD
- Hysterectomy
- Alcohol Abuse
- Absence of Periods
- Thyroid Disorders
- Early Menopause
- Gastrectomy
- Long Term Steroid Use
- Cancer
- Anorexia
- Vertebral Deformity
- Smoker
- Loss of Height
- Coeliac Disease
- Dietary Deficiencies
- Low Trauma Fractures
TIPS TO PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent the development of osteoporosis. Even if you already have the disease, these measures can help slow its progression.
Make calcium-rich foods a regular part of your diet.
If you don’t eat the recommended amount of calcium, consider
calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Do weight bearing exercise.
Walking, jogging and other weight-bearing activities are especially beneficial.
Don’t smoke. Smoking can reduce your bone density by as much as 60%.
Reduce your intake of fizzy drinks.
Reduce alcohol. One of the reasons men suffer from osteoporosis.
