Not only is the scan accurate, but it has the ability to measure as little as 2% of bone loss per year. While other techniques may take 30 to 45 minutes, a DXA scan is remarkably quick, generally taking about 20 minutes. During the scan, patients will experience no discomfort. You can expect to lie on your back, on a padded table. On some occasions you may need to lie with your legs straight, and on others the technologist may ask you to rest your lower legs on a cushion or platform.

To prepare for the test, you should avoid wearing clothing with metal buttons or buckles as well as any jewelry that might interfere with the scan. In addition, be sure to inform your technologist if you have previous bone fractures, metal implants from hip replacement surgery or fracture, or if you have had a barium test or taken a contrast agent containing barium within the last ten days. Also, due to the low dose of radiation, please inform your technologist if you could be pregnant.

Loss of bone mass is part of the natural aging process, but some people are at risk of developing osteoporosis. This condition is characterized by the further weakening of bone structures that may lead to development of thin, brittle bones and an increased risk of fracture. The risk factors associated with osteoporosis include:

Being a post-menopausal woman
Family history
Medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism that decrease the body’s ability to absorb sufficient calcium
Smoking
Frequent alcohol consumption
A diet low in calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D
A lifestyle with little or no weight-bearing exercise