At DexaStrong, we are committed to providing our clients with the most advanced and comprehensive bone health assessments.
One of the key metrics we use is the T-score, a crucial component of the DexaScan results. But what exactly is a T-score, and why is it so important? Let’s delve into it.
What is a T-Score?
The T-score is a comparison of a person’s bone density with that of a healthy 30-year-old adult of the same sex. It is calculated as the number of standard deviations (SD) by which your bone density differs from the average.
How to read a T-Score
Here’s how to interpret your T-score and understand the associated bone degradation conditions:
- A T-score above -1 is considered normal. This means your bone density is within the normal range for a healthy young adult.
- A T-score between -1 and -2.5 indicates low bone mass, often referred to as osteopenia.
- A T-score of -2.5 or lower is a diagnosis of osteoporosis.
What is Osteopenia?
Osteopenia is a condition where bone density is lower than normal peak density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.
While not as severe as osteoporosis, osteopenia still increases the risk of fractures and is often seen as a precursor to osteoporosis.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, significantly increasing the risk of fractures.
It’s a major health concern for older adults, particularly postmenopausal women.
How does the T-Score work?
The lower the T-score, the lower the bone density, and the higher the risk of fracture. According to a study, low physical performance is associated with low bone mineral density (BMD), and a high risk of history of falls and fractures.
Another study suggests that a 50-year-old postmenopausal woman who has been deemed to have osteoporosis on the basis of BMD testing (T score, ≤-2.5) has a lower 10-year fracture risk than a 75-year-old woman with mild osteopenia.
It’s important to note that while the T-score is a critical indicator of bone health, it’s not the only factor your healthcare provider will consider when assessing your fracture risk.
Other factors, such as your age, gender, and whether you’ve had a previous fracture, are also important.
How does DexaStrong use the T-Score?
At DexaStrong, we use the T-score as part of a comprehensive assessment of your bone health.
Our state-of-the-art DexaScan technology provides precise measurements of bone density, allowing us to detect osteoporosis in its early stages and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Our team of professionals is ready to guide you through your DexaScan and help you understand your results.
We believe that knowledge is power, and understanding your T-score and the associated bone degradation conditions is a crucial step towards taking control of your bone health.To learn more about our services or to book a DexaScan, please contact us.
