The DEXA test is easy, quick, and painless, and it’s one of the most accurate and most common ways to measure bone mineral density. Bone density exam can detect small changes in bone mass and help diagnose osteoporosis at its earliest stages.

On the day of the exam calcium supplement or multiple vitamins should not be taken. The calcium supplement that is not completely dissolved can be interpreted as extra bone mineral causing inaccurate reading of the exam.

The test takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. The patient is instructed to lie on the table and the technologist placed a cushion under the patients’ knees to comfort them during the exam. It is important that the patient does not move during the scanning period and can relax while getting their pictures taken.

Bone Density images will be analyzed by a radiologist, a physician who specializes in bone density testing. The radiologist will send a signed report which includes an interpretation of the image to your primary physician. Your physician will receive your results soon after.