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Strong bones are essential to your overall health. They support movement, protect organs, store minerals, and even help produce blood cells. That’s why monitoring your bone density is so important—especially as you age.
One of the most accurate tools for evaluating bone health is a DEXA scan, a fast, painless imaging test used to detect osteoporosis and assess your risk for fractures.
What Is a DEXA Scan?
DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It’s a non-invasive imaging test that measures how dense—or strong—your bones are. The scan uses two low-dose X-ray beams to create detailed images of your bones and determine how much calcium and other minerals are present.
- It typically focuses on the spine and hips—the areas most vulnerable to fracture.
- The scan takes about 10 to 30 minutes.
- It’s completely painless and requires no recovery time.
At BASS Imaging Center, we use DEXA scans to help patients track bone loss early—before it leads to a serious injury.
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What Does a DEXA Scan Show?
A DEXA scan provides a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult:
- Normal bone density: T-score of -1.0 or above
- Osteopenia (low bone mass): T-score between -1.0 and -2.5
- Osteoporosis: T-score of -2.5 or lower
Your doctor will review the T-score and determine whether treatment or further testing is needed.
Why Is Bone Density Important?
Bone density naturally declines with age—but osteoporosis can cause it to decline more quickly. Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. It often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs.
Common risk factors for low bone density include:
- Age (especially over 65)
- Menopause or hormone changes
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking or excessive alcohol use
- Low calcium or vitamin D intake
- Certain medications (like steroids)
If you’re at risk, a DEXA scan is a valuable way to stay ahead of potential problems.
Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?
You may need a DEXA scan if you:
- Are a woman over 65 or a man over 70
- Are postmenopausal and under 65 with risk factors
- Have had a fracture from a minor fall or injury
- Take medications that affect bone health (like corticosteroids)
- Have a family history of osteoporosis
- Want to monitor the effects of osteoporosis treatment
How to Prepare for a DEXA Scan
DEXA scans are quick and easy, but a few tips can help ensure accurate results:
- Avoid calcium supplements 24 hours before your scan
- Inform your provider if you are pregnant
- Wear comfortable clothing without zippers or metal
- Let your doctor know about any recent contrast imaging tests
After Your DEXA Scan
Your results will be reviewed by a radiologist and interpreted by your healthcare provider. They’ll explain your T-score and discuss any treatment or follow-up steps needed to manage your bone health.
Schedule Your DEXA Scan at BASS Medical Group
At BASS Medical Group, we provide expert imaging services—including DEXA scans—to help you detect and monitor osteoporosis with confidence. Our advanced equipment and compassionate providers ensure a fast, comfortable experience.
Serving Walnut Creek and the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our imaging centers are equipped to help you protect your long-term health.
Book your DEXA scan today and take the first step toward stronger bones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does a DEXA scan measure?
A: A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density (BMD) to evaluate bone strength and assess your risk for osteoporosis or fractures.
Q: Is a DEXA scan painful or invasive?
A: No, the scan is non-invasive and completely painless. It typically takes 10–30 minutes and requires no recovery time.
Q: Who should get a DEXA scan?
A: Women over 65, men over 70, postmenopausal women under 65 with risk factors, and individuals with a history of fractures or certain medications (like steroids) should consider getting a DEXA scan.
Q: What is a normal T-score for bone density?
A: A T-score of -1.0 or above is considered normal. Scores between -1.0 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia (low bone mass), while -2.5 or lower suggests osteoporosis.
Q: How should I prepare for a DEXA scan?
A: Avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan, wear metal-free clothing, and inform your provider of recent imaging tests or pregnancy.
Q: Does insurance cover DEXA scans?
A: Many insurance plans—including Medicare—cover DEXA scans for people at risk of osteoporosis. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.
Q: How often should I get a DEXA scan?
A: Most people at risk are advised to repeat the scan every 1–2 years to monitor bone health, but your doctor may recommend a different interval based on your results.
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