Central DEXA scan: what should you know?

DEXA, also written DXA, uses two low-dose X-ray beams to estimate how much mineral is in bone. The central test focuses on the hip and spine, which are useful sites for assessing bone strength and fracture risk. You lie still on a scanning table while the arm of the scanner passes over you; the equipment does not enter your body. A result is interpreted with your age, sex, medical history, medicines, and fracture history rather than in isolation.

Follow the imaging centre's instructions. Tell the team if you may be pregnant, have recently had a contrast examination, or cannot lie flat comfortably. Wear clothing without metal where possible and remove jewellery before scanning. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician specifically advises it. The test itself is usually brief, and you can normally return to routine activities afterwards.

A DEXA scan is planned testing, not emergency care. Contact the imaging centre before the appointment if pregnancy is possible, you have mobility limitations, or you recently received contrast material. After the scan, seek medical advice for a new severe symptom, but the scan itself does not usually cause recovery time. Discuss the result with the clinician who requested it so the next step is clear.

Ask which areas will be scanned, why the test has been recommended, and when you will receive the report. Ask what your result means in the context of fracture history and whether exercise, nutrition, medicine review, or another assessment is needed.