How Osteoporosis Is Diagnosed?

To diagnose osteoporosis and assess your risk of fracture and determine your need for treatment, your doctor will most likely order a bone density scan. This exam is used to measure bone mineral density (BMD). It is most commonly performed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry.

Can osteoporosis be detected by a blood test?

Blood tests are another method used to diagnose certain bone diseases. One example is osteoporosis, where blood tests are used to determine risk factors and rule out other illnesses.

What is the main test for osteoporosis?

A bone density test is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs. This test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone. NOF recommends a bone density test of the hip and spine by a central DXA machine to diagnose osteoporosis.