Bone density tests are done to determine if a patient has Osteoporosis - a disorder that is characterized by fragile bones that may be more likely to break.
A bone density test is simple and uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The bones that are most commonly tested are in the spine, hip and sometimes the forearm. Bone density tests are easy, fast and painless.
Osteoporosis is more common in older females than males, but regardless of sex and age, your doctor may recommend a bone density test if you have: