Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) – Everything You Must Know – By Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon, ONUS Robotic Hospitals

Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) – Everything You Must Know – By Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon, ONUS Robotic Hospitals

Bone health is often ignored until a fracture happens. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, bone loss may already be advanced.

A Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) is a simple, painless investigation that helps detect weak bones early and significantly reduces the risk of fractures.

What Is a Bone Density Test?

A Bone Density Test, commonly called a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) Scan, measures the mineral content and strength of your bones.

It helps determine:

• Bone strength

• Risk of fractures

• Presence of osteopenia or osteoporosis

• Need for preventive treatment

The test is:
✔ Quick
✔ Painless
✔ Non-invasive
✔ Requires no injections

Why Is Bone Density Testing Important?

Weak bones can lead to serious complications such as:

• Hip fractures

• Spine compression fractures

• Chronic back pain

• Height loss

• Reduced mobility and independence

Many fractures occur without warning. Early detection allows doctors to start treatment before major complications develop.

Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?

Bone density testing is recommended for:

• Individuals above 40 years

• Post-menopausal women

• Long-term steroid users

• Thyroid disorder patients

• Diabetes patients

• Individuals with family history of osteoporosis

• People experiencing frequent falls

• Patients with unexplained fractures

Preventive screening is especially important in high-risk groups.

How Is the Test Done?

The procedure is simple:

• The patient lies comfortably on a scanning table

• The machine scans the hip and spine

• The scan takes approximately 10–15 minutes

• No fasting or special preparation required

Radiation exposure is extremely low and safe.

Understanding Your Results (T-Score)

DEXA results are reported as a T-score:

• Normal: Above -1

• Osteopenia: Between -1 and -2.5

• Osteoporosis: Below -2.5

The lower the T-score, the higher the fracture risk.

Your doctor will interpret results along with your overall health profile.

Can Bone Density Improve?

Yes — in many cases, bone strength can improve with:

• Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation

• Weight-bearing exercises

• Resistance training

• Lifestyle modification

• Medical therapy (when needed)

• Fall prevention strategies

Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.

Why Early Screening Matters

Bone density loss is silent. You may not feel symptoms until a fracture occurs.

📌 Early screening:

• Prevents major fractures

• Reduces hospitalization risk

• Maintains independence

• Protects long-term mobility

Final Takeaway

A Bone Density Test is a small step that protects your future mobility.

Early detection saves lives, prevents fractures, and ensures healthier aging.

If you are above 40 or have risk factors, consider discussing DEXA screening with your doctor.

For Appointments:

Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon

ONUS Robotic Hospitals – Hyderabad

👉 Button link: contact-us or book-appointment