Bone Density and Arthritis: Essentials You Must Know

Arthritis is a painful condition affecting the joints of the body. It has characteristics like inflammation; swelling and stiffness, which if left untreated can lead to severe issues in the long run.

A very common thought in people’s minds is that bone density test helps detect arthritis. However, this is not entirely true. For people with rheumatoid arthritis, this test is applicable, as they have a higher incidence of osteoporosis.

But, in general, a bone density test denotes a person’s bone strength and has nothing to do with arthritis. Read on to clarify misconceptions about bone density tests. Also we have listed some popular diagnostic methods below for arthritis.

About a bone density test

It is a painless procedure, sharing similarity with X-rays. A bone density test does not require any prior preparation and is completed within 15 minutes. The screening procedure helps measure bone strength by quantifying the mineral content in major bones like the hip and lumbar spine.

Doctors may also recommend a peripheral bone density test for some individuals. It measures bone density in the:

• Heel
• Lower arm
• Wrist
• Finger

A bone density test is a reliable way to diagnose people having osteoporosis. It is a disorder characterised by weak bones, making them prone to potential fractures. Since osteoporosis does not present any early symptoms, a person may not realize they have the disease until he breaks a bone unknowingly.

What do the results mean?

The outcomes of a bone density test are measured by means of T-score. It helps compare the bone density values of a patient with that of a healthy individual.

Scores in the “+” range denotes an individual having a greater than average bone density value. On the other hand, a score in the “-” range refers to a comparatively lower value than the average bone density. This means, the lower the score, the lesser is the bone density. Here is a comprehensive overview of the scoring system:

• Normal: A T-score between +1 and -1.
• Low bone density: A T-score between -1 and -2.5.
• Osteoporosis: A T-score of -2.5 or lower.

Does a low bone density value show arthritis?

As mentioned earlier, arthritis is an inflammatory condition of the joints and has no relation to bone density scores. However, if you have rheumatoid arthritis, the doctor may prescribe this screening procedure. This is because people having rheumatoid arthritis are highly prone to developing osteoporosis (or extreme low bone density). Here are some common reasons:  

• Treatment involving glucocorticoid drugs. These are highly responsible for bone loss. 
• Inactivity due to the pain and joint function loss.
• Bone loss due to physiological issues, associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Due to this profound relationship of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, there lies a need to use various diagnostic approaches to measure bone density. In this way, the severity of the condition can be kept on a check.

Popular arthritis diagnostic tests that you must know

Besides a physical assessment, doctors incorporate the following tests to diagnose arthritic conditions.  

• Imaging tests: These tests help to determine inflammation and corroding away of joints. Some common imaging tests are: X-rays, MRIs and Ultrasound scans.
   
• Electrodiagnostic test: It helps indicate a disruption in the electrical activity of the nerves.

• Blood tests: Previously conducted research studies show that certain types of blood test, such as, a bone profile blood test, can help diagnose arthritis.
  
  
• Fluid and tissue analysis: These tests are beneficial in analysing synovial fluid (or joint fluid). The procedure can also involve a tissue biopsy from the skin or muscle.

What are the other uses of bone density test?

Additional reasons for undergoing a bone density test, besides diagnosis of osteoporosis, involve evaluation of fracture risks and tracking the effectiveness of treatments. Medical professionals advise bone density screening for:

• Postmenopausal women who do not use oestrogen
• Postmenopausal women with a height of 5 feet 7 inches or weighing 125 pounds
• Men experiencing an ailment associated with bone loss, like kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis
• Women who are aged 65 or above

Professionals may also recommend it for individuals who:

• Have a family background of smoking or hip fractures
• Use medications that lead to bone loss, such as antiseizure medications (e.g., phenytoin (Dilantin)) or corticosteroids like prednisone (Rayos)
• Exhibit elevated bone turnover
• Suffers from metabolic conditions, such as, type I diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and hyperparathyroidism

When to reach out to a private GP?

The Arthritis Foundation states that immediate medical care is not needed for mild or occasional joint pain. However, if an individual suffers from an arthritis that leads to permanent joint damage, early intervention can preserve joint functionality.

Considering the above, a person should be alert for these signs:

• Swelling and feeling of warmth in joints
• Inflammation, discomfort, or rigidity in one or more joints
• Tenderness in the joints
• Trouble with joint movement

Individuals should consult a physician if they have joint issues that persist for over 3 days or encounter multiple symptoms within a month. They might begin with a primary care physician, although some people may need to see a rheumatologist who focuses on arthritic issues.

Conclusion

A bone density test may not show the presence of arthritis, however, can give vital insights into the health of the bones. It is one of the best diagnostic tools to determine the intensity of osteoporosis.

Since some forms of arthritis are responsible for causing permanent joint damage, it is crucial to get a bone density check as early as possible. Several private clinics facilitate such a procedure along with bone profile blood tests.