What should you know about a DEXA scan for osteopenia?

Osteopenia means bone density is lower than the expected healthy range but does not by itself confirm osteoporosis. The report may compare your bone density with a reference range and identify the hip or lower spine as the measured site. Your clinician combines that result with age, previous fractures, medicines, family history and health conditions. Bone density is one part of fracture risk, not a prediction of what must happen.

A DEXA examination is generally quick and uses low-dose X-rays. Wear clothing without bulky metal and tell the imaging team if pregnancy is possible or if you recently had a contrast examination.

Take the report to the clinician who requested it and ask whether repeat testing, exercise, nutrition review or medicine is appropriate. Strength and balance work can support safer movement; a tailored plan is described in Strength Training Rehabilitation. Ask whether vitamin D testing is needed, particularly if deficiency is a concern; see Vitamin D Deficiency and Vitamin D Supplementation for related information. Calcium from food is often discussed before a supplement, and Calcium Supplementation may be considered when intake is inadequate or a clinician advises it.

Arrange medical assessment promptly after a fall that causes significant pain, inability to bear weight, new difficulty using an arm or leg, or sudden back pain. Seek urgent care for severe pain with weakness, numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or a visible deformity. Osteopenia itself may cause no symptoms, so do not wait for pain before discussing the result and prevention plan.

Which bones were measured, and how should I understand the report? Does my fracture history change the plan? Should I review vitamin D, calcium, medicines, vision, footwear or fall hazards? What exercise is suitable for my joints and current fitness? When should my bone density be checked again?