Bone density testing When and how to do it

Are you wondering why your doctor recommended a bone density test?Do you suffer from frequent back pain or unexpected fractures? These could be early signs of bone weakness or even the onset of osteoporosis. The DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is one of the most accurate and reliable tests for detecting bone loss before it becomes serious.In this comprehensive guide from Dalili Medical, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the DEXA scan: how it works, who should get it, what to expect during the test, whether it has any risks, and how to interpret your results.

✅ What Is a DEXA Scan?

A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the gold standard test used worldwide to assess bone mineral density (BMD) and diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis.

It uses two low-dose X-ray beams to measure the amount of minerals (especially calcium) in your bones — usually focused on the hip and spine, the most fracture-prone areas.

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✅ Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?

Doctors may recommend a DEXA scan in the following situations:

• Women over 50, especially after menopause

• Men aged 70 and older

• Individuals with:

  • Frequent or unexplained fractures

  • A family history of osteoporosis

  • Long-term use of corticosteroids

  • Severe vitamin D or calcium deficiency

  • Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or kidney disease

• Before or during treatment for osteoporosis to monitor improvement

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✅ How Is a DEXA Scan Performed?

The test is painless, fast, and non-invasive.

What to Expect:

• Preparation:

  • No fasting required

  • Inform your doctor if you’re pregnant or had a recent contrast scan or nuclear imaging

• During the Scan:

  • You lie flat on a padded table

  • The scanner passes over the hip and spine

  • No injections or contrast dyes are used

  • The entire process takes 10–20 minutes

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✅ Is the DEXA Scan Safe?

Yes — DEXA scans are considered very safe. They use minimal radiation, much lower than a standard chest X-ray — equivalent to just one day of natural background exposure.

However, pregnant women should avoid this test unless absolutely necessary.

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✅ What Does the DEXA Scan Measure?

The scan provides two important scores:

Score	Meaning
T-score	Compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult (around age 30)
Z-score	Compares your bone density to people of the same age, sex, and size

 

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✅ Understanding DEXA Scan Results

T-Score	Result	Interpretation
+1 to -1	Normal	Healthy bone density
-1 to -2.5	Low Bone Mass (Osteopenia)	Beginning of bone loss
≤ -2.5	Osteoporosis	High risk of fractures
≤ -3.5	Severe Osteoporosis	Urgent treatment likely required

 

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✅ Benefits of a DEXA Scan

• Early detection of osteoporosis before fractures occur

• Monitoring treatment effectiveness

• Predicting fracture risk

• Guiding supplement or medication needs (e.g., calcium and vitamin D)

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✅ DEXA vs. Other Imaging Tests

Test	Accuracy	Radiation	Use Case
DEXA	High	Very Low	Diagnosis & monitoring
Regular X-ray	Low for early bone loss	Medium	Detecting fractures
Quantitative CT	Very High	High	Used in complex or high-risk cases

 

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✅ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat before the scan?
✅ Yes, fasting is not required.

How often should I get a DEXA scan?
???? Every 1 to 2 years, based on your age and health risk.

Is it painful?
❌ No. You simply lie down — no pain or injections involved.

Should I stop supplements before the scan?
???? You may be advised to stop calcium or vitamin D 24 hours before the scan — follow your center's instructions.

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✅ Tips Before the Scan

• Wear comfortable clothing without zippers or metal parts

• Inform your doctor of recent scans using dye or contrast

• Bring previous DEXA results (if available) for comparison

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✅ Summary

The DEXA scan is a highly effective, safe, and quick test to evaluate your bone health and detect osteoporosis before complications arise.

If you’re in a risk category or experiencing symptoms like unexplained fractures or back pain, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about scheduling a DEXA scan.
Early detection can protect your bones — and your future.