What should you know about DEXA scan range?

Most routine bone-density examinations measure the lumbar spine and one or both hips because these areas help assess fracture risk and can be compared with reference data. The scan is not a head-to-toe check of every bone. The forearm may be considered when the hip or spine cannot be measured reliably, or when a condition makes that site useful.

A wider-looking image does not mean every visible bone has been analysed. Spinal arthritis, a compression fracture, scoliosis, or metal from surgery can affect which vertebrae are included in the final interpretation. Ask the reporting clinician which sites were accepted and whether any were excluded.

Tell the service about hip replacements, spinal procedures, fractures, or difficulty lying flat. Wear clothing without bulky metal and follow the centre’s instructions about supplements or recent contrast studies. During the examination, remain still while the scanner moves over the selected region. The radiographer may adjust your position to obtain comparable measurements.

Contact the imaging service before the appointment if pain or mobility limits may prevent the required position, or if pregnancy is possible. Seek medical advice for sudden severe back or hip pain, inability to bear weight, or a new injury rather than waiting for a DEXA appointment. These symptoms may need a different assessment because DEXA is designed for bone-density measurement, not urgent injury evaluation.

Ask which sites will be scanned, why those sites were chosen, and whether an additional forearm measurement is relevant. Clarify how arthritis, implants, or a previous fracture could change the usable range and the follow-up plan.