A T-score compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A T-score between +1 and -1 is considered normal. A score between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates osteopenia (lower than average bone density). A score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. The more negative the score, the lower the bone density and the higher the fracture risk.

A T-score of -2.5 is the clinical threshold for an osteoporosis diagnosis. It means your bone density is 2.5 standard deviations below that of a young healthy adult — a level associated with significantly increased fracture risk. However, a T-score alone does not determine your individual fracture risk, which also depends on age, fall risk, prior fractures, and other factors. Many women with T-scores of -2.5 have improved through Dr. Brown’s natural program.

A T-score compares your bone density to a young (peak bone mass) adult reference group. A Z-score compares your bone density to other people of the same age, sex, and body size. Z-scores are especially useful for younger women and men, as they help determine whether bone loss is greater than expected for one’s age. A Z-score below -2.0 is considered below the expected range for your age and warrants investigation into secondary causes of bone loss.

For most postmenopausal women with normal bone density, a DEXA scan every 2 years is typically recommended. Women with osteopenia or osteoporosis who are actively working to improve bone health may benefit from annual testing to track progress. If you are following a natural bone-building program, testing every 1-2 years allows you to monitor your response and adjust the program as needed.

Different DEXA machines — and even the same machine in need of calibration — can produce readings that vary by 1-3%, which is significant when you are measuring changes over time. If you switch machines between tests, it can be difficult to determine whether any change in your score is real or just a difference between machines. Dr. Brown strongly recommends using the same machine at the same facility for all follow-up tests to ensure accurate comparison.

First, do not panic — both conditions are manageable, and many women have improved their bone density through natural means. Next steps: (1) Get a thorough nutritional evaluation to identify any deficiencies in key bone nutrients; (2) Consider Dr. Brown’s comprehensive bone health program; (3) Review any medications that may contribute to bone loss; (4) Add appropriate weight-bearing exercise; (5) Work with your healthcare provider on a monitoring plan. Both osteopenia and osteoporosis respond well to a natural, comprehensive approach.

Both slowing and actual reversal are possible, depending on the individual and the comprehensiveness of the program. Dr. Brown has documented cases where women gained measurable bone density — not just slowed loss — through the Better Bones program. The key factors are: the severity of bone loss, the comprehensiveness of the nutritional approach, consistency, and time. Even slowing bone loss significantly reduces fracture risk over the long term.