X-Ray, EMG, And Bone Density Testing Specialist
Whether you’re at risk for osteoporosis or you’ve had bone fractures, you need image testing to determine how severe your problem is. With Dr. Harvey Manes, you can have a variety of tests completed at Wellwood Orthopedics in Lindenhurst, Long Island, New York. If you’re at risk for low bone mass, he may request a bone density test. If there’s been a recent fall, an X-ray may be necessary. When you’re experiencing muscle weakness, Dr. Manes may request an electromyogram (EMG) to determine the cause. Call the office to schedule your initial consultation.
X-Ray & Bone Density Testing Q & A
What is bone density testing?
Bone density testing, sometimes referred to as a DXA or DEXA scan, determines if your bones have lost mass or density. It’s a common occurrence that is most often found in women as they age.
Bone density testing can determine if you have moderate bone loss, called osteopenia, or severe bone loss, also known as osteoporosis. Both of these conditions increase your risk of bone fractures.
These tests use a small X-ray to measure the number of minerals in your bones, typically at the lower back, hip, or forearm.
Who needs bone density testing?
There are multiple reasons Dr. Manes may suggest bone density testing. He recommends it to patients who have:
- A family history of osteoporosis
- Experienced multiple bone fractures
- Women 65 and older
- Men 70 and older
- Had a fragility bone fracture
If you don’t meet these criteria, Dr. Manes may still recommend a bone density test if you have specific risk factors, including:
- Long-term use of corticosteroids
- Postmenopausal
- Diet low in calcium or vitamin D
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Bowel disease
What should I expect during a bone density test?
When Dr. Manes performs a bone density test, you simply put your hand into the bone density machine for 2 minutes. It then determines the bone density of your entire body.
To prepare for your bone density test, stop taking any calcium supplements, including multivitamins and antacids, 24 hours beforehand. If you’ve recently had a barium or contrast X-ray examination, you must wait at least 10 days before having a bone density test.
On the day of your test, you can eat normally and take any daily medications that don’t contain calcium. If you wear an underwire bra or have body piercings below your neck, remove them.
Why have an X-ray?
If you’ve been experiencing unexplained pain, have osteoporosis, or have had a recent fall that may have caused a fracture, Dr. Manes may ask that you have an X-ray. This conventional imaging technique is a noninvasive way for him to look inside your body and determine what’s causing your symptoms.
Through an X-ray, Dr. Manes can:
- Examine painful areas
- Monitor certain diseases
- Review treatment progression
He performs X-rays right in the Wellwood Orthopedics office and can read your results immediately.
What is an EMG?
An EMG, or electromyogram, tests the electrical activity of your nerves and muscles.
Doctors often use them to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions, specifically when you’re experiencing unexplained muscle weakness. Dr. Manes may request an EMG if he thinks you’re at risk for:
- Muscular dystrophy
- Inflammation
- Pinched nerves
- Peripheral nerve damage
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Myasthenia gravis
- Disc herniation
Dr. Manes inserts a needle into your muscle to perform the test. It acts as an electrode, picking up electrical activity. When you flex your muscle, the needle transfers the response and displays it for the doctor to interpret.