Bone density measurement at the ROC in Aschheim

Bone density measurement

In addition to a detailed medical history and various blood tests, the standard method for diagnosing osteoporosis is bone density measurement (densitometry). Bone density measurement (DXA, dual X-ray absorptiometry) is the most reliable method for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing the risk of fractures. At the ROC in Aschheim near Munich, we offer this precise examination to detect bone loss at an early stage and initiate targeted measures for prevention or treatment.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease of the skeleton in which bone density and structure gradually decrease. As a result, the bones become porous, unstable and more susceptible to fractures - particularly in the hip, spine and wrist.

Causes and risk factors for osteoporosis

Osteoporosis occurs when the natural balance between bone formation and bone resorption is disturbed. From around the age of 35, bone resorption slowly outweighs bone formation. In osteoporosis, however, this process is accelerated.

Common risk factors are

Genetics: A family history increases the risk.
Age & gender: Women after the menopause are particularly at risk as oestrogen levels fall.
Lifestyle: Lack of exercise, insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake as well as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption promote bone loss.
Diseases & medication: Rheumatism, hyperthyroidism, diabetes or long-term cortisone therapy can promote osteoporosis.

Symptoms - osteoporosis often goes unnoticed

Osteoporosis develops gradually and often remains undetected for a long time because it initially causes no pain. Only when the bones are severely weakened can it lead to:

Back pain due to vertebral body fractures,
changes in posture (hunchback, loss of height),
Spontaneous bone fractures without major stress.

Early diagnosis is therefore crucial!

When is a bone density measurement useful?

A bone density measurement is recommended for

Women aged 65 and over and men aged 70 and over
People with risk factors such as a family history, smoking, vitamin D deficiency or previous bone fractures
Patients with certain diseases (e.g. rheumatism, diabetes, hyperthyroidism) or long-term cortisone therapy

How does the bone density measurement work?

Bone density measurement (DXA measurement) is a painless examination and only takes a few minutes. During this time, you lie relaxed on a couch while a weak X-ray system measures the density of your bones - usually in the lumbar spine and hips.

Why is early diagnosis of osteoporosis important?

As osteoporosis remains symptom-free for a long time, early diagnosis is crucial. It enables:

Prevention of fractures through early treatment
Individual therapy planning with diet, exercise and medication recommendations
Monitoring bone health for an active life

If osteoporosis is not recognized and treated early, serious bone fractures can occur, even during everyday movements or minor falls. Femoral neck fractures are particularly common as a result of osteoporosis and can lead to serious physical and psychological consequences. Every year, around 160,000 people in Germany suffer a femoral neck fracture - a number that is expected to increase in the coming years due to rising life expectancy. A femoral neck fracture often leads to chronic pain, restricted mobility and loss of independence. Many patients are dependent on outside help and can no longer actively participate in life.

To prevent such serious consequences, bone density measurements should be carried out regularly in at-risk groups.