Part 1: Understanding Osteoporosis

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A highly portable device that that uses high-energy sound waves to measure bone density transmits ultrasound through bone to reflect bone status. The heel is measured because its bone is similar to that found in the spine and hip, where most osteoporotic fractures occur.

The procedure involves merely placing a patient's foot in the device for 10 seconds and then waiting a few minutes for the results. While not as precise as a DEXA, it is a useful screening tool to determine individuals with low bone mineral density. One advantage is that it is considerably more inexpensive than a DEXA scan. Also, the equipment for a DEXA scan may not be readily available in rural areas far from a major medical center and this ultrasound device can be easily accomodated in any physician's office. Additionally, many health fairs will obtain an "ultrasonometer" to use to screen individuals.