Osteoporosis can affect peri-menopausal and menopausal women. At this time in life oestrogen levels naturally start to decline which can result in bones losing density and becoming brittle.
To detect subtle changes in bone density, doctors use an enhanced form of x-ray technology called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).
DEXA scanning involves a very low dose x-ray and is a quick and painless procedure. Measurements of the lower spine and hips are most frequently carried out.
DEXA scans are available to anyone wishing to monitor their bone density and are especially advised for women over the age of 50years. Xray Xpress now offers DEXA scanning using a state of the art Lunar Prodigy Advance scanner.
N.B. Bone density scans can be done without a referral letter from your GP, same day appointments are available.