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Strong Bones for Life: Understanding the DEXA Scan

  • Writer: Jeff Floyd, DC
    Jeff Floyd, DC
  • Sep 2
  • 2 min read

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If you’ve ever worried about osteoporosis or bone loss as you age, you’ve probably heard about the DEXA scan. Short for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, this test is considered the gold standard for measuring bone density. Think of it as a super-precise snapshot of how strong your bones are.

What Is a DEXA Scan? A DEXA scan is a quick, painless test—usually taking less than 15 minutes—that uses very low-dose X-rays to measure the amount of mineral (like calcium) in your bones. The results tell your doctor if your bones are healthy, starting to thin (osteopenia), or weakened enough to be considered osteoporosis.

Understanding the Results The scan provides two main scores:

  • T-score: Compares your bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old.

    • -1.0 or higher: Normal bone density.

    • Between -1.0 and -2.5: Osteopenia (early bone loss).

    • -2.5 or lower: Osteoporosis.

  • Z-score: Compares your bone density to what’s typical for someone of your same age, sex, weight, and ethnicity.

    • Around 0: Normal for your age group.

    • Below -2.0: Lower than expected for your age, which may prompt further investigation for underlying causes like certain medical conditions or medications.

Who Should Get One? The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends DEXA scans for women over 65, men over 70, and anyone over 50 with risk factors such as previous fractures, long-term steroid use, or a family history of osteoporosis.

How to Improve Bone Density While you can’t turn back the clock, you can strengthen your bones at any age:

  • Weight-bearing exercise: Brisk walking, hiking, dancing, or tennis encourage bone strength.

  • Strength training: Lifting weights or resistance band workouts help build both muscle and bone.

  • Calcium-rich foods: Dairy, leafy greens, almonds, and fortified plant milks support bone structure.

  • Vitamin D: Needed to absorb calcium—get safe sun exposure or supplements if needed.

  • Limit alcohol & quit smoking: Both can speed up bone loss.

Bottom Line A DEXA scan offers clear insight into your bone health and can guide prevention or treatment. By pairing the test with bone-friendly lifestyle habits, you can protect your mobility and independence for years to come.

 
 
 

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