Ultrasound idea to test bones

THE latest Bone density testing and bone health information program to help women and men assess their risk of fracture and prevent osteoporosis will be at Emerald Village Pharmacy on Thursday, 22 June only.
“Ultrasound bone density testing is a reliable and effective method to assist in assessing risk of bone fracture,” says Dr Max Holsman, the medical adviser to Australian Bone Density Testing Centre.
The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Volume 20, Number 4, 2005, states: “Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) measurements were made on 4139 female army recruits (USA) at the beginning of basic training.
“QUS predicted stress fracture in female recruits as well as it predicted hip fracture in elderly women.”
For 11 years, Australian Bone Density Testing Centre has specialised in regular bone testing throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria and NSW.
“The bone density test is 100 per cent safe, costs just $50 (pensioners and seniors $45) and no referral is required.
“The Centre’s nurse will perform the test, analyse the result, alert you to any problems that might be present, and provide you with easy to understand information on bone health,” said Dr Holsman.
“Each person tested receives a written result and information booklet re osteoporosis risk factors, nutrition, exercise, menopause and medications that cause bone loss.
“There are also easy-to-prepare high calcium recipes and a chart indicating calcium levels in common foods.
“Osteoporosis means your bones become thin and fragile and break under the slightest strain. In Australia it affects one in three women and increasing numbers of men.
“Bones reach peak strength around the age of 25. From approximately 35, both men and women can slowly start to lose bone strength at about 1 per cent per year. The outstanding fact is that it is largely preventable and treatable.
“You can’t feel your bones getting thinner so osteoporosis is know as the silent disease. It’s therefore a good idea to test your bones density every two years.
“Unfortunately, many people do not take their bone health seriously until it’s too late to prevent fractures.”
Bone density testing is part of Australian Bone Density Testing Centre’s specialised program offering innovative professional advisory services to the community regarding the importance of life-long bone health and prevention of osteoporosis.
Testing is recommended for women over 40, men over 50 as well as anyone over the age of 20 who is concerned about keeping their bones strong.
Book your test at Emerald Village Pharmacy by phoning 5968 3023. For further information, see www.bonedensitytesting.com.au.