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Bone density scan (DEXA)
DEXA scan · bone density test · osteoporosis test · DXA scan
A special X-ray that measures how dense your bones are. The radiation dose is very small.
To check for osteoporosis: for women after menopause, after a fracture from a minor injury, or after taking steroid hormones for a long time.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 20 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Calcium. You are usually asked not to take calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan. Check with your clinic.
- Food. You can eat as usual.
- Clothes. No metal: no zippers, buttons, buckles, or underwire bras. Leave jewelry at home.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past bone density results, to compare
How it goes
- You remove items with metal and lie on your back on the table
- Your legs rest on a support to straighten your lower back
- The arm of the machine slowly passes over you
- Usually the lower back and hip are checked, sometimes the forearm
- You need to lie still for a few minutes
What you'll feel
- Nothing. You only need to stay still
Afterwards
- You can go back to your day right away
- The report is usually given the same day
- Your doctor will explain what the numbers mean
Common questions
Is a bone density scan dangerous?
The radiation dose is very small. It is less than a regular chest X-ray.
How often should I have a bone density scan?
Usually no more than once every 1 to 2 years. Your doctor sets the timing.