10683 Dexa Dxa Scan Bone Density Test

Overview

A DEXA scan (also called DXA) is a quick, painless X-ray test that measures how dense and strong your bones are. It is not a treatment and it does not cause pain. It helps your healthcare provider estimate your risk of breaking a bone and decide whether you need further checks or support.

Yes. DEXA is a common and widely used test, especially for older adults and for people with risk factors for weak bones. Low bone density itself is also common, particularly after menopause and as people age.

It is most often used for women after menopause, adults over 65 (women) or 70 (men), and younger people with risk factors such as a previous fracture, long-term steroid tablet use, early menopause, a family history of hip fracture, low body weight, smoking, or heavy alcohol use. Men and younger people can also be affected.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• The DEXA scan itself causes no symptoms. It is a test, not an illness.
• Low bone density often causes no symptoms at all until a bone breaks.
• Some people notice gradual height loss or a stooped posture as bones in the spine weaken.
• A broken bone from a minor fall or everyday movement can be the first sign of weak bones.
• Back pain can occur with a spinal compression fracture, but many spinal fractures cause little or no pain.

Symptoms in children

• DEXA scans are not routine in children. They may be used only for specific medical reasons, such as certain long-term conditions or treatments that affect bone health.
• Children usually do not have symptoms of low bone density. A child's scan result must be interpreted carefully by a specialist because children's bones are still growing.

Symptoms in older adults

• Height loss of more than a few centimetres, a change in posture, or new back pain may be linked to spinal fractures.
• Fractures from a standing height or less — especially of the hip, spine, wrist, or upper arm — are a warning sign of weak bones.
• Fear of falling and problems with balance or walking can increase fracture risk.

Causes

Main causes

• Bone is living tissue that is constantly renewed. Low bone density happens when bone is lost faster than new bone is made, or when you did not build enough bone during youth.
• The drop in oestrogen after menopause speeds up bone loss in many women.
• Ageing, some medical conditions, poor nutrition, inactivity, and some medicines can also weaken bones.
• A DEXA scan does not cause bone loss. It measures the result of these changes so your healthcare team can help.

Risk factors

• Being female and past menopause, or having early menopause
• Older age, especially 65 or older for women and 70 or older for men
• A previous broken bone from a minor fall, or a family history of hip fracture
• Low body weight or a history of an eating disorder
• Long-term use of steroid tablets or some other medicines that affect bone
• Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and low physical activity
• Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D from food or supplements, as advised by your healthcare provider
• Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, digestive problems that affect nutrient absorption, kidney or liver disease, and some cancers
• Having a parent who broke a hip, or being housebound or at high risk of falls

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have a fall or injury with severe pain, deformity, or cannot bear weight.
• You have sudden severe back pain with new leg weakness, numbness, or bladder or bowel changes.
• You have a known fracture and pain, swelling, or numbness is getting worse.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You are a woman aged 65 or older, or a man aged 70 or older, and have not discussed bone density screening.
• You are younger with risk factors such as a previous fragility fracture, long-term steroid tablet use, early menopause, low body weight, smoking, heavy alcohol use, or a strong family history of osteoporosis.
• You have a condition or take a medicine that can affect bone health and want to review your bone health.
• You are already being treated for weak bones and need to arrange or discuss a follow-up scan.

Diagnosis

Bone strength is assessed by combining your medical history, a physical check, your fracture risk, and a DEXA scan. The scan measures bone mineral density, usually at the hip and lower spine. Your healthcare provider interprets the numbers alongside your age, sex, health, and previous fractures. Only your healthcare provider can tell you what your result means for you.

Tests that may be done

• DEXA scan (also called DXA) — the main test for bone mineral density
• Fracture risk assessment, such as a FRAX-type tool, which combines your risk factors with your scan result
• Blood tests to look for causes of weak bones, such as vitamin D, calcium, thyroid, kidney, liver, or coeliac-related tests when needed
• X-rays or spine imaging if a broken bone is suspected
• A repeat DEXA scan after an agreed interval to monitor changes, especially if you are having treatment

What to expect at your appointment

You will usually lie on a padded table, fully clothed, while a scanner arm passes over your hip and lower spine. You do not go into a tunnel and you do not need an injection. The test takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Your clinic will tell you how to prepare — for example, you may be asked to wear loose clothing without metal zips or buttons, and to avoid calcium supplements for a day before the scan. Results are not instant; a specialist will review them and your healthcare provider will explain them at a follow-up.

Treatment

Treatment is based on your overall fracture risk, not just your DEXA number. Your healthcare team may focus on lifestyle changes, fall prevention, treating any underlying cause, and — if your risk is high — medicines that help protect or rebuild bone. The aim is to keep you active and lower your chance of a broken bone.

Self-care at home

• Do regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise, such as walking, dancing, or light resistance work, as safe for you.
• Add balance exercises to reduce falls, and ask a physiotherapist or exercise professional for guidance if you are unsure.
• Eat a varied diet with enough calcium and vitamin D; ask your healthcare provider whether you need a supplement.
• Stop smoking and keep alcohol within recommended limits.
• Make your home safer: good lighting, clear walkways, grab rails, and no loose rugs.
• Have your vision and hearing checked, and review medicines that can make you drowsy or unsteady with your pharmacist or doctor.
• Follow your healthcare provider's advice about repeat scans and when to seek help after a fall.

Medical treatments

If your fracture risk is high, your healthcare provider may discuss medicines that slow bone loss or help build new bone. They will explain the possible benefits and risks and choose an approach that fits your health. Pain from a fracture may be managed with pain relief and rehabilitation. You should not start or stop any medicine without speaking to your healthcare team.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat low bone density itself. It may be needed if you break a bone — for example, a hip fracture or some severe spinal fractures — or if a fracture causes pressure on nerves. Your care team will discuss whether surgery is right for you.

Living with this condition

Most people with low bone density can continue to live full, active lives. The key is to reduce fall risk, stay strong, and keep in touch with your healthcare team about scan results and treatment. Small daily habits — like clearing clutter, wearing supportive shoes, and doing balance exercises — can make a real difference.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep moving with activities you enjoy and can do safely.
• Include strength and balance work at least twice a week if you are able.
• Protect your bones by preventing falls: use handrails, avoid rushing, and ask for help with heavy lifting.
• Stay connected with friends, family, and local groups; loneliness can make activity and self-care harder.
• Plan ahead for bad weather or illness so you are less likely to fall or become isolated.

Diet and exercise

There is no single food or exercise that prevents all fractures. A balanced diet with enough protein, calcium, and vitamin D supports bone health. Weight-bearing exercise — where you are on your feet — helps bones, while strength and balance exercises reduce falls. If you have had a fracture or are frail, ask your healthcare provider or a physiotherapist to help you choose safe exercise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being told you have weak bones, or worrying about falls, can make people feel anxious or less confident. These feelings are common and worth discussing. Talking to your healthcare team, family, friends, or a counselor can help. If you feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local emergency number or a local crisis support service right away.

Prevention

You cannot control all risk factors, but you can lower your chance of weak bones and fractures. Building strong bones in youth helps, and adults can still protect their bones through activity, nutrition, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and preventing falls.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for weak bones. Keep up with routine vaccines recommended for your age and health, because staying well helps you remain active and reduces illness-related falls.

Screening programmes

DEXA is the main screening test for bone density. Guidelines vary by country, but screening is often considered for women aged 65 or older, men aged 70 or older, and younger adults with risk factors. Ask your healthcare provider whether a DEXA scan is right for you and how often you may need one.

Complications

If left untreated

• Bone loss can continue without symptoms and lead to a broken bone from a minor fall.
• Spinal fractures can cause back pain, height loss, and a stooped posture.
• Hip and other fractures can lead to hospital care, loss of independence, and long-term disability.
• Repeated fractures can make it harder to stay active and confident.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is encouraging. Early detection gives you time to make changes and, if needed, start treatment that can lower fracture risk. Many people with weak bones stay active and independent with the right support. It is never too late to take steps to protect your bones.

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