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DEXA Scan

Regenerative Medical Group -  - A Group Medical Practice

Regenerative Medical Group

Regenerative Medicine Specialists and Peptide Therapy Clinic located in Orange, CA and serving all of Orange County.

DEXA Scan Q & A

DEXA Scan - The Gold Standard for Measuring Bone Density

What is DEXA Scan?

DEXA scan, also known as Bone Density Scan,  detects the strength & thickness of the bone. It also helps in the diagnosis & detection of Osteoporosis & Osteopenia fracture risks.

A DEXA scan also uses a low radiation dose, meaning the health risks are much lower than standard X-rays.

This scan can help detect the strength & thickness of the bone in the various parts of the body like Arms, legs, neck, hip, and spine.

What is a DEXA scan used for?

DEXA scan is used to:

  • Access bone strength

  • Calculate bone density

  • Measure fat mass

  • Diagnose osteoporosis & osteopenia

  • Predict the risk of future fractures

  • Check treatment efficiency

Who is at risk of developing Osteoporosis?

  • Over the age of 50 with the risk of developing osteoporosis 

  • History of smoking, alcohol consumption, and Low BMI (body mass index) 

  • People with higher FRAX risk scores 

  • Menopause and low estrogen 

  • History of hip fracture 

  • Bone thinning caused by Glucocorticosteroids, Heparin / Warfarin, medroxyprogesterone acetate, cancer drugs, and thyroid hormone 

  • Vitamin D deficiency

“1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4  men will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.”

A DEXA scan may be recommended if you have an increased risk of developing a bone problem like osteoporosis. Here are some of the Risk Factors that could cause issues with your bone health:

  • Celiac disease

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Hyperthyroidism, or hyperparathyroidism

  • Inflammatory bowel disease

  • Kidney or liver disease

  • Multiple myeloma

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Seizures, Gastric reflux, Cancer, and Transplant rejection medication

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus

  • Tobacco use

What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis?

  • Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra

  • Loss of height over time

  • A stooped posture

  • A bone that breaks much more easily than expected

How to prepare yourself for the scan?

There are a few things to follow before going in for a DEXA Scan:

  • Avoid calcium supplements 24 to 48 hours before your test 

  • Eat and drink normally prior to the scan 

  • Avoid wearing metallic objects during the scan 

  • Consult your physician if you are pregnant before the procedure 

  • Simple & painless procedure 

  • Plan for the procedure to take 10-30 minutes 

  • Expect no downtime or pain associated with the scan 

Pre-scan assessments

  • FRAX - The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool, estimates your risk of having a hip or other major fracture in the next 10 years

  • Kinetisense - A full-body functional movement test

Reports are provided within 24 hours.