Health Tip: Learn the Benefits of a Bone-Density Test

(HealthDay News) -- A bone-density test can help your doctor determine if you have osteoporosis or are at risk of the disease. The test measures the amount of bone in your spine, hip and other parts of your skeleton.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation says a bone-density test can help:

• Your doctor diagnose osteoporosis or a weakness in the bones. This can give you and your doctor more information after you've already broken a bone, or help you to avoid a future fracture.
• Check the progress or improvement of your bone density.
• Check the effectiveness of osteoporosis medication.