The use of X-ray techniques for bone densitometry in archaeological skeletons

This chapter focuses on various x-ray techniques that can be applied to the examination of archaeological bones. A brief explanation of the anatomy and physiology of bone is given and the basic radiation physics that is needed to understand the technique described is outlined. The study of BMD has also been important for archaeozoology and a range of techniques for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) of archaeological bones is introduced in the chapter, and examples of use are also given. A recent study is presented showing the use of a particularly novel technique for measuring the trabecular bone density of archaeological bone. In recent years, there has been a growing interest among researchers for investigating archaeological bone in the study of bone mineral density (BMD). One of the primary reasons for increasing studies in order to investigate BMD has been a growing appreciation of the problems that conditions characterized by low BMD, such as osteoporosis, produce in the present population. Knowledge of the morbidity and mortality caused by osteoporosis related fractures has prompted researchers to ask whether individuals in the past were similarly affected.