What should you know about a normal DEXA scan?

DEXA uses low-dose X-rays to estimate bone mineral density, commonly at the hip and lower spine. The report may compare your result with people of a similar age or with a healthy young adult reference group. A normal result means the measured areas do not show low density by that report’s interpretation.

Bone strength also depends on falls, balance, medicines, previous fractures, nutrition and conditions that affect hormones or calcium. The scan does not measure every aspect of bone quality or explain bone pain.

Review the report with the clinician who requested it and ask when reassessment is appropriate. Support bone health with weight-bearing activity suited to you, strength and balance work, adequate calcium and vitamin D from food or supplements when advised, and fall-prevention measures. Tell your clinician about a previous fracture or a condition such as [Premature Ovarian Insufficiency](/conditions/premature-ovarian-insufficiency/).

Arrange prompt medical assessment after a fall with severe pain, inability to bear weight, new deformity or sudden loss of movement. Seek urgent help for severe back pain with leg weakness, numbness around the groin or loss of bladder or bowel control. A normal scan does not make a new injury safe to ignore.

Ask which bones were measured, which comparison was used, whether your medicines or fracture history alter the interpretation, and when another [Bone Density Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/bone-density-scan/) might be useful. You can also ask how the [DEXA Scanner](/technology/dexa-scanner/) works and which activities suit your joints.