Portugal
A 53-year-old female asked:
What are the most investigative tests for bone loss, when one has severe osteoporosis?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. James Cunnaranswered
Family Medicine 28 years experience
DEXA and blood: The gold standard for osteoporosis is DEXA scanning. Other options for evaluating severe osteoporosis are blood tests which can measure bone breakdown, as well as MRI scanning which can show thinning of the bones... But DEXA is still the gold standard.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Michael Turneranswered
Family Medicine 38 years experience
It depends: Generally speaking, bone density testing along with appropriate laboratory testing: cbc, calcium levels, metabolic panel, iron, ferritin, thyroid, and vitamin d testing. More extensive testing may be done depending on your history, presentation, or abnormalities of the above tests: 24 hour urine calcium, parathyroid hormone, sedimentation rate, etc.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Peter Ihleanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 55 years experience
Check ca & V-D intak: U need adequate intake of both, also important is weight bearing exercise, walking is all u need 2 do. Institute a walking program, starting slowly & also advance it slowly. A dietitian consult may help. Also b sure ur md clears u 4 it . Good running shoes with wide heels r good 4 stability. If u purchase at a big store like sheels if you have trouble with them they have a good return policy.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Feb 19, 2015
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.