What should you know about DEXA scans for athletes?

DEXA uses low-dose X-rays to estimate bone mineral density and distinguish bone, lean tissue, and fat tissue. For an athlete, the result may add context to a history of stress injuries, low energy availability, irregular periods, or major changes in training.

A scan is a measurement at one point in time, not a complete performance assessment. Results can be influenced by hydration, recent exercise, positioning, and the equipment's analysis method. Bone-density scores need interpretation alongside age, sex, medical history, medication use, and fracture history.

Tell the imaging team if you could be pregnant, recently had a contrast examination, or have difficulty lying still. Wear clothing without metal where possible and follow the centre's instructions about food, fluids, and supplements.

Use the report as one part of a plan. A sports physician or dietitian can connect the findings with training load, recovery, calcium and vitamin D intake, menstrual health, and strength work. Repeat scanning should have a clear clinical reason and use comparable conditions so changes are easier to interpret.

Seek clinical advice after a stress fracture, repeated bone or muscle injuries, unexplained loss of weight, persistent fatigue, or a marked drop in training capacity. Athletes who menstruate should discuss absent or widely irregular periods, especially when these occur with heavy training or restrictive eating.

Do not wait for a scan if you have sudden severe pain, inability to bear weight, a visible deformity, or symptoms after a significant impact. Those problems may need urgent examination and different imaging.

Ask which measurement is relevant to your concern, whether a bone-density scan or a broader DEXA assessment is appropriate, and how your result will be compared with a suitable reference group. Ask what training, nutrition, or follow-up changes are recommended.