DEXA Scan
We believe that a DEXA Scan is The Baseline to Better Health and everyone aged 18-80 should have on-going DEXA Scans to track and measure against their health baseline.
The scan performed by a DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorption) is a quick and painless Whole Body Scan that provides clarity to the individual using science backed technology to identify body fat, lean muscle and bone health. A DEXA Scan is the GOLD Standard for measuring Bone Health and Body Composition
A DEXA can also provide Three (3) Critical health markers that can be used to identify health risks including Heart Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, Stroke, Osteoporosis and more.
What is a Body Composition DEXA Scan
The DEXA Scan for Body Composition provides the most accurate breakdown of your body including your total body fat percentage, visceral fat, muscle mass and how it is distributed through out your body. Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and dieters often use body composition scans to get a baseline of where they are now, and to objectively measure their progress.
How a DEXA Body Composition Scan Works:
The total scan takes about 7 minutes, where you’ll be lying flat on the scanning bed. The DEXA is the ‘gold standard’ body composition testing. It has the greatest precision and shorter scan times.
STEP 1: Find a location near you
STEP 2: Schedule an appointment
STEP 3: Prepare! Do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before the exam and avoid wearing clothes with metal zippers or hooks.
STEP 4: Lay flat on the scanning bed for roughly 7 minutes
STEP 5: Directly after you’re scanned, you’ll get your results and will walk through them with a professional.
The Results
What is a Bone Density DEXA Scan
A Bone Densitometry test is used to measure how strong your bones are. It is commonly used to identify osteoporosis, a condition that causes a decrease in the density of bones resulting in fragility, and to determine a person’s risk for developing fractures. Risk for developing fracture is determined by age, weight and family/personal history. DEXA is today’s established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) and is most often performed on the spine, hips or forearm. Talk to your doctor before scheduling a DEXA Scan.
How a DEXA Bone Density Scan Works
STEP 1: Talk to your doctor about your eligibility for Bone Density Testing
STEP 2: Your doctor will recommend a nearby Dexa Scan provider that is covered by your health insurance.
STEP 3: Schedule an appointment for the scan and an additional appointment with your doctor to discuss the results.
STEP 4: Prepare! Do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before the exam and avoid wearing clothes with metal zippers or hooks.
STEP 5: Lay flat on the scanning bed for roughly 10 to 20 minutes
STEP 6: Discuss your results with your health care provider.
The Results
T score: This number shows your Bone Mineral Density compared to young adults of the same gender in peak health.
- -1 and above: this is considered a normal score
- between -1 and -2.5: this is classified as osteopenia (low bone mass)
- below -2.5: this is classified as osteoporosis (extremely low bone mass)
Z score: This number shows your Bone Mineral Density compared to other people in your age group of the same size and gender. If this score is more than 2 standard deviations above or below average, it may indicate a need for further medical tests.