Vibration methods to measure changes in bone mineral content

Highly significant positive correlations (p<0.001) were obtained between the apparent wave velocity and resonance frequency parameters and other physical properties of bone. For instance, it is shown that wave velocity area parameter had a highly significant positive correlation with the bone mineral content as measured by dual photon absorptiometry. Similar correlation also existed between the wave velocity and the flexural stiffness and the yield load. Similar highly significant positive correlations also existed between the resonant frequency parameter and the bone mineral content as determined by single and dual photon absorptiometry. The resonance frequency parameter also showed highly significant positive correlations with the flexural stiffness and the yield load. The authors' results suggest that resonance frequency and wave velocity of human tibia could predict its mechanical properties and mineral content; and thus can potentially be used as a diagnostic tool to monitor the degree of osteoporosis.<>