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Heritage Valley Health System provides area residents with a comprehensive evaluation for osteoporosis at the Heritage Valley Health Center, Moon. Our facility houses a state-of-the-art bone densitometer to check bone density levels. Heritage Valley provides the only comprehensive osteoporosis services in Beaver County.
The service also provides free heel screenings to detect osteoporosis (and the possible need for a more extensive evaluation) at many area businesses and community events.
A bone-density test is the most accurate way to detect if an individual has lost bone mass or is at risk for fracture. The preferred sites for evaluation are a hip and the spine. If the patient has had bilateral hip replacements, the technician may use another site, such as a forearm.
Evaluation services are provided by a densitometry technician and an interpreting physician who are certified by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry.
In addition to determining bone mass, the physician can assess a patient's risk of fracture with the bone-densitometer equipment. This allows for more aggressive treatment and enhances patient awareness about the consequences of osteoporosis. With information gathered, the physician can assess a person's likelihood of future fractures and plan a course of treatment.
Prevention is the most important element in the fight against osteoporosis. Until about age 35, bones replenish themselves. After age 35, bone loss begins.
Annual bone density measurements are recommended for post-menopausal women and all women age 65 and older to evaluate the rate of bone loss from year to year.
Heritage Valley Osteoporosis Services has daytime and evening appointments available. To schedule a bone density test or for information on upcoming free heel screenings, call one of our sites listed below:
Women's Health Center
200 Pleasant Drive
Aliquippa, PA 15001
866.901.IMAG (4624)
Heritage Valley Health Center, Moon
935 Thorn Run Road
Moon Township, PA 15108
866.901.IMAG (4624)
Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
