How do doctors diagnose osteoporosis and what tests do they use?

Doctors diagnose osteoporosis by taking a detailed medical history, performing a physical examination, and using specific tests. They will ask about any history of fractures, family history of osteoporosis, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and any medications you are taking. The doctor will also check for signs of bone loss or fractures during the physical exam. The most common test for diagnosing osteoporosis is a bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan. This test measures the density of your bones and can help determine your risk of fractures. Other tests may include blood tests to check for underlying conditions that could cause bone loss, and urine tests to measure the rate of bone turnover. Based on these results, the doctor can determine if you have osteoporosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.