What should you know about a mobile DEXA scanner?

DEXA, also called DXA, commonly measures bone density at areas such as the hip and lower spine. The scanner compares the measured density with reference values and a clinician interprets the result in context, including age, medical history, medicines and previous fractures. The scan assesses bone strength; it does not explain every cause of bone or back pain.

Mobile equipment may be brought to a community, care facility, or other suitable location. The scan is non-invasive, and the person generally lies still while the scanner passes over the body area being assessed.

Follow the service's instructions about clothing and supplements. Tell the team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, have recently had another examination involving contrast material, or cannot lie flat comfortably. Wear clothing without metal where possible and bring details of medicines and previous fractures.

The result is not a treatment plan by itself. Ask the requesting clinician what the reading means for fracture prevention, exercise, nutrition, medicines, and whether a repeat scan is appropriate.

A DEXA appointment is not an emergency service. Seek urgent help for a new severe injury, inability to move after a fall, sudden weakness, or severe back pain with loss of bladder or bowel control. Contact the requesting clinician if pain, falls, or mobility problems are worsening while you wait.

Ask which body areas will be scanned, why the test is recommended, how your result will be interpreted, what steps reduce fracture risk, and when the report and follow-up plan will be available.