What should you know about a DEXA scan order?

The request may state the body areas to scan and the clinical reason, such as a previous fracture, bone loss risk, or monitoring after treatment. The scan creates measurements that are interpreted alongside your age, sex, medical history, medicines, and fracture history. An order is not a diagnosis; the clinician who requested it should explain the result and whether follow-up is needed.

Tell the imaging team if you have recently had another imaging test using contrast, have difficulty lying flat, or may be pregnant. These details can affect scheduling or the way the appointment is handled.

Follow the centre’s instructions and wear clothing without large metal fasteners. Bring the order or referral details, a list of medicines, and information about earlier fractures or bone conditions. Ask whether calcium supplements should be paused before the scan, because local instructions can differ. During the test, you may need to lie still while the scanner passes over the area being measured; the technologist can help you position safely.

Afterward, ask when and how the report will be discussed. Keep the result with your health records so future measurements can be compared by the same clinical team when appropriate.

A DEXA scan is usually arranged as a planned test, not an emergency service. Seek urgent medical care for a new severe hip, back, or wrist injury, inability to bear weight, sudden loss of movement, or severe pain after a fall. Contact the requesting clinician if you are pregnant, cannot attend safely, or develop new symptoms after an injury while waiting for the appointment.

Ask which sites will be measured, why the scan was requested, how your result will guide care, and when you should receive the report. You can also ask whether another condition, such as Premature Ovarian Insufficiency, changes your bone-health plan.