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Elliot Health System is a non-profit organization serving your healthcare needs since 1890.
Diagnostic Imaging

Diagnostic Imaging

Central Scheduling Phone: 603-663-2180


Bone Densitometry


bone densitometry mageBone densitometry is a method of determining bone mass loss by measuring radiation absorption through the skeleton. A bone densitometer uses painless radiographic imaging to evaluate and measure the density of bone in your spine, hips or forearms. Age, weight, sex and ethnic background are also considered helpful to determine your age-related fracture risk.

Osteoporosis is defined as a disease of bone loss leading to an increased risk of fractures such as your hip, spine, and wrist. This test assesses your risk and treatments that can help your doctor determine if dietary changes, weight-bearing exercise or medication may be helpful in preventing or help treat osteoporosis.

Men as well as women are affected by osteoporosis; however, women are at five times’ greater risk than men of developing the condition.

About 11% of men and 27% of women aged 60 years or more are osteoporotic, and 42% of men and 51% of women are osteopenic.

Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are:

  • Female, amenorrhea, early menopause or surgically-induced menopause
  • Thin and/or small boned
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroids
  • Thyroid disease
  • Excessive use of alcohol or Cigarette smoking
  • Low vitamin D or calcium intake
  • Lack of exercise
  • Having had chemotherapy

Preparation

Avoid clothing with snaps, buttons, and zippers. Metal and plastic in the area being scanned will interfere with the exam. Allow 1⁄2 hour for your appointment.

Risks

There are no risks associated with the bone densitometry DXA scan.

You should not have this test, however, if you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant.


Locations for Bone Densitometry:


RE Lab

Elliot at River's Edge
185 Queen City Avenue
Manchester, NH. 03101
Phone: (603) 663-3000

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londonderry bldg

Medical Center at Londonderry
40 Buttrick Road
Londonderry, NH 03053
Phone: (603) 669-5300

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senior center

Elliot Senior Health Center
138 Webster Street
Manchester, NH 03104
Phone: (603) 663-7030

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