What to expect during a DEXA scan

You usually remain dressed unless clothing or metal interferes with the images. The technologist positions your hip or leg and may place your legs on a support. For a spine measurement, you may lie with your legs supported to keep your back in the correct position. The scanner passes over the area without touching you, and you need to stay still for each image.

The examination is not an enclosed tunnel. It does not involve an injection or sedation, and you can normally breathe and speak. Tell the team if pain makes a position difficult so they can adapt the setup safely.

Follow the centre's instructions about calcium supplements and food. Tell the imaging team about possible pregnancy, recent contrast examinations, metal implants, or inability to lie flat. Choose comfortable clothing and remove items such as a belt or jewellery if requested. Bring details of previous bone scans when available.

After the appointment, most people can return to ordinary activities unless their clinician gives different advice. Results are reviewed by a qualified professional rather than interpreted from the scanner screen. A clinician may compare the report with fracture history, medicines, falls, and hormonal health, including premature ovarian insufficiency when relevant.

The scan itself should not cause injury. Tell the team immediately if positioning causes significant pain, dizziness, or breathlessness. After leaving, seek urgent assessment for severe new pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Contact your clinician about a new fracture or continuing pain even if the scan appointment went smoothly.

Ask which body areas will be measured, whether you should pause any supplement, when the report will be available, and how the result will guide follow-up. If you have mobility problems, ask how the team can support safe positioning.