What should you know about a DEXA scan machine?

During a scan, you lie on a padded table while an arm passes over areas such as the hip and lower spine. The machine compares how much X-ray energy passes through bone and soft tissue. A clinician uses the resulting measurements with your age, medical history, medicines and fracture history; the image alone is not a diagnosis.

DEXA is often used when bone strength may be reduced, including around menopause or with conditions such as Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. The test is different from a routine X-ray because it is designed to assess bone density rather than show an injury.

Tell the imaging team if you may be pregnant, recently had a contrast study, or cannot lie still comfortably. Wear clothing without metal where possible and follow the centre’s instructions about supplements or preparation. The scan is usually brief and does not involve needles. You will need to remain still while the images are taken.

Ask which body sites will be assessed and when the report will be reviewed with you. The technology is described further in DEXA Scanner, while Bone Density Scan explains the clinical test.

Contact a clinician promptly after a fall or injury if you have severe pain, cannot bear weight, notice a new deformity, or lose movement. These symptoms need assessment for injury and are not decided by arranging a DEXA scan. Seek urgent help for sudden weakness, trouble speaking, or loss of bladder or bowel control.

Ask why the scan is recommended, which bones will be measured, how your result will be interpreted, and whether medicines or a previous fracture change the plan. You can also ask when repeat assessment might be useful and what steps protect bone health meanwhile.