Bone assessing method for fracture risk, involves inserting test probe through periosteum and soft tissue on bone of subject so that test probe contacts bone, where probe is inserted into bone to create microscopic fractures

NOVELTY - The method involves inserting a single use, replaceable test probe (800) through a periosteum and soft tissue on a bone of a subject so that the test probe contacts the subject`s bone. A material property of the bone is evaluated through the contact with the test probe. The test probe is inserted into the bone in a microscopic distance to create microscopic fractures in the bone. A resistance of the test bone to microscopic fracture by the test probe is determined, where the bone fracture risk is correlated with a force versus distance parameter. USE - Used for assessing a bone for fracture risk in a subject e.g. human and animal, with osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. ADVANTAGE - The test probe is inserted into the bone in a microscopic distance to create microscopic fractures in the bone and resistance of the test bone to microscopic fracture by the test probe is determined, thus assessing the bone fracture risk. The method allows diagnostic instrument that gives diagnostic information with a very quick and inexpensive test. DETAILED DESCRIPTION - INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are also included for the following: (1) a diagnostic instrument for assessing bone (2) a combination of test probe and reference probe for a diagnostic instrument for assessing bone (3) a test instrument for determining properties of a material.