Ultrasound is used to estimate bone density and fracture risk. In the US, only units that measure at the heel are approved for use. These devices assess the speed of sound and do not use any radiation. You may see these machines used at health fairs, health food stores, drugstores, or in your doctors’ offices as a screening tool for osteoporosis.
Osteoporotic bone that is more porous transmits sound waves slower than normal more dense bone. Results of an ultrasound test can estimate risk of breaking a bone at any site. However, heel ultrasound devices cannot diagnose osteoporosis or monitor response to treatment with an osteoporosis medicine.