The DEXA Bone Density Test requires an order from your primary care provider. The order given to you by your provider could be paper, faxed or sent electronically.
A bone density test is one of the safest, most accurate ways to measure bone mineral density and provide information about bone health. Since you can’t see or feel bone loss, this test is one way to tell if you have or are at risk for osteoporosis. There are several types of bone density tests. The most common is called a DEXA test. This test is easy, quick and painless.
Schedule a DEXA Bone Density Test at one of our nine locations:
Long Beach – (562) 933-7880
MemorialCare Breast Center – Long Beach
MemorialCare Breast Center – Los Alamitos
North Orange County – (714) 378-7955
MemorialCare Breast Center – Huntington Beach
MemorialCare Breast Center – Fountain Valley
MemorialCare Breast Center – Newport Beach
South Orange County – (949) 452-7200
MemorialCare Breast Center – Irvine (Barranca)
MemorialCare Breast Center – Irvine (Sand Canyon)
MemorialCare Breast Center – Laguna Hills
MemorialCare Breast Center – Rancho Mission Viejo
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is a convenient and painless test to identify bone density to determine whether you have osteoporosis and if you are at risk for bone fractures.
DEXA compares your Bone Mineral Density (BMD) to adults in your age group as well as young adults at peak bone strength. This information, along with other factors, helps your physician assess your risk of osteoporotic fracture.
DEXA is also useful in following bone changes over time. It can monitor the effects of age, diet and/or medications and treatments on your bone status.
What Does the Bone Density Test Using DEXA Technology Involve?
The bone densitometer has a large, padded examination table. You will be asked to lie on your back, wearing your own clothing in most cases. The technician positions your arms and legs for the test; then, you simply lie still and breathe normally. Bone density scans can be taken of the spine, hip and forearm. A radiologist interprets your scan and sends a written report to your physician.
Is Bone Density Test Using DEXA Safe?
X-rays are used, but the amount absorbed by the patient is only about one tenth of that received during a chest x-ray. The x-ray dose from DEXA is comparable to the naturally occurring environmental radiation that you are exposed to in one week.*
*Caution: Although the X-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is very low, you must inform the operator if you are pregnant or might be pregnant before your test.
Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis risk factors:
- History of taking Depo-Provera
- Family history of fracture
- Early menopause
- Diet low in calcium
- Thin and small framed
With a bone density test, osteoporosis can be detected early so that fractures may be prevented.
How Do I Prepare?
The day of the test, you may eat and drink as usual. No fasting or special diet is required. You will need to AVOID certain medications for at least 24 hours prior to your test date and time. Do not take the following:
- Calcium supplements
- Multivitamins
- Any osteoporosis medication
- Any other medications containing calcium*
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing, like sweatpants and a T-shirt. Do not wear clothing with metal, such as zippers, snaps, buttons or buckles. The test takes less than 20 minutes.
Questions that You Will Be Asked on the Day of Your Visit
- Medications you take
- Height
- Weight
