Bone scintigraphy

Overview

Bone scintigraphy, also called a bone scan, is a medical imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to look for problems in your bones. It can find fractures, infections, arthritis, or cancer that has spread to the bones.

Yes, bone scintigraphy is a common imaging test used worldwide to help diagnose and monitor many bone conditions.

It is used for people of all ages who have symptoms such as bone pain, unexplained fractures, or signs of infection or cancer in the bones.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Bone pain that does not go away with rest
• Pain in a bone that hurts more at night
• Swelling or tenderness over a bone
• Unexplained fractures or breaks

Symptoms in children

• Limping or not wanting to use a limb
• Bone pain that wakes the child up at night
• Fever along with bone pain (possible infection)

Symptoms in older adults

• Persistent bone pain, especially in the hips, spine, or ribs
• Sudden back pain that may be from a fracture
• Pain in multiple bones or joints

Causes

Main causes

• Fractures that are not visible on regular X‑rays
• Bone infections (osteomyelitis)
• Arthritis or joint inflammation
• Cancer that has spread to the bones (metastasis)
• Paget's disease of bone (a condition that affects how bones form)

Risk factors

• Having a known cancer that can spread to bones (such as breast, lung, or prostate cancer)
• Advanced age, which increases risk of fractures and other bone conditions
• Long‑term use of certain medications (like steroids) that weaken bones
• Having a weakened immune system (from illness or treatment)
• Smoking or heavy alcohol use, which can affect bone health

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Sudden, severe bone pain that prevents you from moving
• Bone pain with a high fever or signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling)
• Loss of feeling or movement in a limb along with bone pain

Book a routine appointment if:

• Persistent bone pain that has lasted for more than a few weeks
• Recurring fractures or fractures that heal slowly
• Unexplained weight loss along with bone pain

Diagnosis

Bone scintigraphy is performed by a nuclear medicine team. You will be given an injection of a small amount of radioactive tracer. After waiting 2-3 hours for the tracer to reach your bones, you will lie on a table while a camera takes pictures.

Tests that may be done

• Bone scan (scintigraphy)
• Sometimes additional imaging like X-rays, CT, or MRI may be done to get more detail
• Blood tests to look for markers of bone disease or infection

What to expect at your appointment

The injection may cause a brief sting. You will be asked to drink plenty of water after the injection to help flush the tracer from your body. The scan is painless, and you will need to lie still for a few minutes. Your doctor will discuss the results with you usually within a few days.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what the bone scan finds. For example, fractures may need casting or rest, infections require antibiotics, and cancer may need chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Your doctor will explain the best options for your specific condition.

Self-care at home

• Rest the affected area if pain is present
• Use over‑the‑counter pain relievers (like paracetamol or ibuprofen) as directed by your doctor or pharmacist
• Apply ice or heat as recommended for pain or swelling

Medical treatments

Medical treatments may include antibiotics for bone infections, pain management medications, or therapies such as radiation or chemotherapy for bone cancer. Your healthcare team will create a plan based on your diagnosis and overall health.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed to stabilize a fracture, remove infected or dead bone, or remove a tumor if it is causing pain or weakening the bone.

Living with this condition

If you have a bone condition, follow your treatment plan and attend follow‑up appointments. Keep a pain diary and tell your doctor about any changes. Use mobility aids (like a cane or walker) if recommended to reduce the risk of falls.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid high‑impact activities that could cause injury
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol intake to improve bone healing
• Get enough calcium and vitamin D through diet or supplements (ask your doctor)

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium (dairy, leafy greens) and vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified foods). Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can strengthen bones and muscles. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with bone pain or a serious diagnosis can be stressful. It is normal to feel anxious or sad. Talk to your healthcare team about your feelings – they can connect you with counseling or support groups.

Prevention

Many bone conditions cannot be prevented, but you can reduce your risk of fractures and bone disease by eating a healthy diet, staying active, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol. If you have a family history of bone problems, discuss screening with your doctor.

Screening programmes

If you have a condition that increases your risk of bone problems (like cancer), your doctor may recommend routine bone scans to check for spread. This is called surveillance and helps catch problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated bone infections can spread to the bloodstream and become life‑threatening
• Undetected fractures may heal incorrectly and cause chronic pain
• Bone cancer that spreads can cause more damage and pain

Long-term outlook

When bone problems are found early, treatment is often very effective. Many conditions can be managed so you stay active and comfortable. Even serious issues like bone cancer can be treated, and many people live well for years. Your healthcare team will work with you to give you the best possible outcome.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.