Bone density scanning (DEXA or DXA) at Cheltenham Hospital

FAQs

• What does my T-score mean?

  A T-score compares your bone density to a healthy young adult. A score between +1 and -1 is normal, -1 to -2.5 means low bone density (osteopenia), and -2.5 or below means osteoporosis.

• Does a low T-score mean I'll definitely break a bone?

  Not necessarily. Your T-score is only part of the picture, so it's considered alongside a fuller fracture risk assessment. This means some people in the osteoporosis range won't be recommended medicine, while some in the osteopenia range will be.

• Will I need another scan in future?

  You might, usually every 2 to 5 years, to monitor your bone strength or review any treatment. Because bone density naturally decreases slowly with age, a similar or only slightly lower result at your next scan can actually be a positive outcome.

• Is the scan painful?

  No. There's no pain, no injections, and you don't go into a tunnel. You just need to lie still while the scanning arm passes over you.

• Can I have a DEXA scan if I'm pregnant?

  This generally isn't recommended, as with X-rays in general. Let the department know if you're pregnant or think you might be, so your appointment can be rearranged.

• What's the difference between a DEXA scan and a whole-body bone scan?

  A DEXA scan measures bone density to screen for osteoporosis. A whole-body bone scan is a different test that checks whether a cancer has spread to the bones.