Are you at risk for osteoporosis? A DEXA scan is the best test for bone density. Find out who needs a bone scan and book yours in San Francisco today.
Bone health is often overlooked—until a fracture occurs. Osteopenia and osteoporosis can silently weaken bones, increasing the risk of fractures, poor mobility, and long-term health complications. A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) is the most accurate way to measure bone density and assess your risk of bone loss.
If you’re wondering whether you should get tested, here’s everything you need to know about who needs a bone density scan and the key signs that indicate you should schedule one today.
A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density (BMD) and detects signs of osteopenia or osteoporosis—conditions that weaken bones and increase the likelihood of fractures. Unlike regular X-rays, which only detect fractures after they happen, DEXA scans can identify bone loss early, allowing for preventive action before serious damage occurs.
✅ Bone mineral density (BMD) in key areas like the spine, hips, and wrists
✅ T-score (compares your bone density to a young, healthy adult)
✅ Z-score (compares your bone density to others your age)
✅ Fracture risk assessment
📊 If your T-score is -1.0 to -2.4, it indicates osteopenia (low bone mass), and -2.5 or lower suggests osteoporosis (high fracture risk).
Women lose bone density rapidly after menopause due to a drop in estrogen, increasing the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis.
📍 1 in 2 women over 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture.
📍 1 in 5 men over 70 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture.
👉 If you’re in this age group, a DEXA scan should be part of your regular health check-up.
🔹 If your parent or sibling has osteoporosis or has suffered fractures from minor falls, you are at higher genetic risk.
🔹 Early testing with a DEXA scan can help you take preventive steps to slow bone loss.
📍 If you’ve broken a wrist, hip, spine, or rib from a minor fall or even a strong cough or sneeze, this is a red flag for low bone density.
👉 Fractures from minimal trauma are one of the biggest warning signs of osteoporosis—schedule a DEXA scan immediately.
🔹 Losing more than 1.5 inches in height may indicate vertebral fractures from bone thinning.
🔹 A curved or hunched posture (kyphosis) can be a sign of weakened spinal bones.
👉 A DEXA scan can assess whether your height loss is due to osteoporosis-related bone deterioration.
Certain medications can contribute to bone loss over time, including:
❌ Corticosteroids (Prednisone, Cortisone) – Used for asthma, arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory conditions.
❌ Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – Used for acid reflux (e.g., Omeprazole, Nexium).
❌ Anti-Seizure Medications – Such as phenytoin or valproate.
❌ Certain Cancer Treatments & Chemotherapy – Can cause rapid bone loss.
👉 If you’ve been on these medications long-term, you should get a bone density test to monitor potential damage.
🔹 Calcium and Vitamin D are essential for bone health.
🔹 If you have low dietary calcium intake or limited sun exposure, your bones may weaken over time.
🔹 Vitamin D deficiency affects 40% of adults and is directly linked to osteoporosis risk.
👉 A DEXA scan can determine if low bone density is already affecting you.
🏋️♂️ Regular weight-bearing exercise is essential for maintaining bone strength.
❌ If you rarely engage in physical activity (especially weight training, walking, or running), you may be at higher risk for bone loss.
👉 A DEXA scan can assess whether inactivity has started to affect your bones.
❌ Smoking weakens bones and interferes with calcium absorption.
❌ Excessive alcohol consumption (more than 2 drinks per day) reduces bone formation and increases fracture risk.
👉 If you smoke or drink heavily, a DEXA scan can provide insights into how these habits may be affecting your bones.
The frequency of DEXA scans depends on your risk factors and current bone health.
✔️ Women over 50 & men over 70 → Every 1-2 years
✔️ People with osteopenia → Every 1-2 years to track progression
✔️ People on bone-damaging medications → Annual scans
✔️ Those with osteoporosis → Every year to monitor treatment effectiveness
✔️ Younger individuals with risk factors → Baseline scan, then follow-ups as needed
📊 If your T-score indicates osteopenia or osteoporosis, don’t panic! You can take proactive steps to slow bone loss and strengthen bones.
🥛 Increase Calcium Intake – 1,000-1,200 mg/day from dairy, leafy greens, almonds, or fortified foods.
☀️ Boost Vitamin D Levels – 600-800 IU daily from sunlight, fatty fish, eggs, or supplements.
💪 Get Enough Protein – Supports bone remodeling and strength.
🏋️♂️ Strength Training – Lifting weights builds stronger bones and muscles.
🏃 Weight-Bearing Cardio – Walking, jogging, dancing, and hiking stimulate bone growth.
🧘 Balance & Flexibility Training – Yoga and Pilates help prevent falls and fractures.
❌ Quit Smoking – Smoking accelerates bone loss.
❌ Limit Alcohol & Soda Intake – Alcohol interferes with bone formation, and soda leaches calcium from bones.
✅ Get Regular DEXA Scans – Track changes and adjust your approach as needed.
If you’re ready to take control of your bone health, book a DEXA scan at KALOS. Our full-body composition scans take just six minutes and provide the most precise assessment of bone density, muscle mass, and fat distribution.
📅 While not covered by insurance, the insights gained are invaluable for preventing osteoporosis and maintaining lifelong mobility.
📍 Schedule your scan today at KALOS—your journey to stronger bones starts now.
Bay Area residents trust KALOS to deliver results. We proudly serve the entire Bay Area including the following locations:
