What should you know about a GE DEXA scan?

During the scan, the machine compares how X-rays pass through bone and soft tissue. The report may describe bone density using scores that a clinician interprets with your age, sex, medical history, and fracture risk. A scan can support assessment of osteoporosis or monitoring after a clinician has recommended treatment; it does not show every reason a bone may hurt.

Wear comfortable clothing without metal when possible and tell the imaging team if you may be pregnant, recently had a contrast examination, or cannot lie flat. Follow any instructions about calcium supplements. You normally remain dressed, lie still on the scanning table, and may need your hip or spine positioned carefully. The scan is non-invasive and the team can explain each position.

A DEXA scan is usually planned rather than an emergency test. Seek prompt care after a significant injury if you have severe bone or back pain, cannot bear weight, or notice a new deformity. Tell your clinician about unexpected fractures, loss of height, or long-term medicine use that may affect bone health, because these details can change the assessment.

Ask which bones will be scanned, whether you need to pause any supplement, how your score relates to fracture risk, and when repeat imaging or treatment review might be appropriate.