What are the most sensitive equipment, and what are the bones of which it is most useful to measure bone mineral density?

The most popular tools are of two types: the so-called single-photon absorptiometry (SPA), with which we can measure the mineral density of the forearm and wrist, and those that employ an X-ray technology (DEXA) by which you can measure the density of the whole body (projected “total body”), spine and proximal femur.
Computed tomography (QCT) can be used to accurately assess the relationship between whole cortex and trabecular component of a vertebral body and, in the version that pQCT can evaluate the same parameters on the bones of the forearm. Have recently been introduced in clinical ultrasound, measuring the speed of wave transmission at the calcaneus, the patella and the phalanges of the hands.
Provide interesting data on another characteristic of the bone, such as elasticity. The choice of the district to be tested depends on several factors: first, the availability of certain equipment in the area, then the sex and age of the subject.
Many patients need to be followed by the projection “total body” considering providing more complete data. In reality it is less reliable and the projection of doubtful practical utility.
Most authors recommend that you measure the density of the spine (it can only assess the lumbar segment) in women up to 60 years and the density of the femoral neck more advanced age. For the purpose of predicting fractures, however, no site is superior to another, so, if the purpose of the examination is to calculate the risk of structural failure in any home, a district or the other.