Before we begin: Bone density or bone mineral density (BMD) is the amount of bone mineral in your bones. A BMD test measures bone health and risk for breaking bones.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about bone density. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is bone density? Your bones are made of living tissue. To keep them strong, your body breaks down old bone and replaces it with new bone. But when more bone is broken down than replaced, you lose bone density, also called bone mass. Bone density is a measure of the amount of calcium and other minerals in bone. Bones containing more minerals are denser. They tend to be stronger and less likely to fracture (break).
Losing bone density can weaken your bones. In some cases, it can lead to osteoporosis. This is a disease which can make your bones more likely to break. Low bone density that is not low enough to be osteoporosis is sometimes called osteopenia.
What can make you lose bone density? Your bones become less dense as you age. Other factors can also make you more likely to lose bone mass, such as:
A family history of osteoporosis or low bone mass
Not developing good bone mass when you are young
Having certain medical conditions, such as:
Endocrine diseases
Certain digestive diseases
Rheumatoid arthritis
Certain types of cancer
HIV
Anorexia nervosa, a type of eating disorder
Taking certain medicines, such as:
Corticosteroids
Proton pump inhibitors (which treat GERD)
Medicines to treat epilepsy
Smoking tobacco
Long-term heavy alcohol use
Physical inactivity or prolonged periods of bedrest
Not everyone who has low bone mass gets osteoporosis, but they are at higher risk for developing it.
Is there a test to measure your bone health? A bone density scan is the best way to measure your bone health. It compares your bone density, or mass, to that of a healthy person who is the same age and sex as you are. It can show:
Whether you have low bone density
Whether you have osteoporosis, a disease that makes your bones weak
Your risk for breaking bones
Whether your osteoporosis treatment is working
How can I keep my bones strong? To help keep your bones strong and help prevent osteoporosis, the best thing to do is to eat a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Getting regular physical activity, limiting alcohol, and not smoking can also help. In some cases, your health care provider may prescribe medicines to prevent osteoporosis.
NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Also known as: Bone mass.
Related topics: Bone Loss, Osteopenia.
Categories: Bones, Joints and Muscles.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Key Takeaways
Understanding bone density is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.