They Are Both Diagnosed in Similar Ways
Tests for both conditions are painless non-invasive procedures. They involve and estimation of bone mineral density. Bone mineral density is the measurement of the levels of calcium in the bone. [8] This helps doctors evaluate the risk of fractures and determine if a patient has osteoporosis or osteopenia. The test is usually done on the bones of the hip, shin, wrist, spine, heel, or fingers.
Bone mineral density is usually assigned a score (known as a T-score). This score determines if you have osteopenia or osteoporosis. The bone mineral density of most normal healthy bones falls between 1.0 to 2.0. A T-score between -1.0 to -2.5 is generally considered low and often results in an osteopenia diagnosis. [9] Above -2.5, doctors usually diagnose people with osteoporosis because the risk of fracture is higher.
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is the best and most common way to determine bone mineral density. Plain radiographs may be used to diagnose osteopenia, but they are not as effective at diagnosing osteoporosis. [10] DEXA uses low-energy x-rays, which are generally safer than regular x-rays. It exposes people to less radiation and reveals the levels of calcium in the bone better.