What is it? A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a simple and painless test that uses low-dose X-rays to measure how much fat and muscle you have. It offers a more accurate method for determining body composition and can be used to assess overall body health. Why Test? A DEXA scan offers a powerful way to understand your body beyond what the scale can show. It breaks down your body composition, measuring how much is fat and muscle—so you can see if you're losing fat while preserving muscle during weight loss. It also detects hidden visceral fat around your organs, which is linked to serious health risks like heart disease and diabetes, even if your overall weight is going down. With this detailed information, you can tailor your nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices to suit your body’s specific needs. By giving a clearer picture of your progress than weight alone, a DEXA scan can help keep you motivated and make your health journey more effective and rewarding. What to Expect: You don't need to fast or do anything special before the scan. Wear comfortable clothing without metal (avoid jeans, bras with underwire, or clothing with zippers, snaps, metallic prints, or belts). Remove all jewelry, including earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, and watches. Remove metal hair clips and pins before your scan. You’ll be asked to lie still and flat on a table while a scanner passes over your body. The scan usually takes about 10–20 minutes. You'll receive the test results and resources from your care team within 24 hours of completing the scan. Contraindications for the test: Pregnancy – DEXA scans use a very low dose of X-rays but are not recommended if you are pregnant or might be pregnant. Body weight over 450 lbs (204 kg) – This exceeds the manufacturer’s scanner table limit. Recent imaging with contrast dye (e.g., iodine or barium) – Please wait at least 10–14 days after contrast-based X-rays, CTs, or MRIs before booking. Inability to lie flat for 5-10 minutes – The scan requires a still, supine position. Special Considerations: Metal implants (e.g., hip or knee replacements, rods, screws, plates, surgical staples). These are safe for scanning but may distort fat/muscle readings in those regions Pacemakers or implanted cardiac devices. Scanning is typically safe but will be documented and adjusted for in interpretation. Insulin pumps or CGMs (continuous glucose monitors). These should be removed before scanning if possible. Braces, retainers, or dental hardware. These may appear on the scan image if the head is included, but will not interfere significantly **These special considerations are not contraindications, but they can affect your scan results. Please inform us ahead of time if you have any of the above.
