If your doctor has recommended a bone density test, Broadway Imaging Center provides diagnostic imaging services in Glendale, California, to help patients access the examinations their healthcare providers request. A DEXA scan in Glendale, CA, is a commonly used imaging examination that measures bone mineral density and helps physicians evaluate bone health and the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.
DEXA, also written as DXA, stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. This specialized imaging technique uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density, most commonly at the hip and lower spine. The results can help your physician determine whether your bone density is within the expected range or whether additional evaluation, monitoring, or treatment may be appropriate.
Bone health is important at every stage of life, but it becomes particularly significant as people age and the risk of bone loss increases. Osteoporosis can develop without noticeable symptoms, meaning a person may not realize their bones have become weaker until a fracture occurs. A bone density scan provides valuable information that can help healthcare providers identify bone loss and make informed decisions about preventive care.
At Broadway Imaging Center, our team is committed to providing a professional imaging experience and helping patients understand the scheduling and preparation process.
Call Broadway Imaging Center at 818-548-0022 to ask about scheduling your DEXA bone density scan.
A DEXA scan, also known as a bone density scan or DXA scan, is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging examination used to measure bone mineral density. It helps healthcare providers assess how much mineral content is present in specific bones and evaluate whether a patient may have low bone density or osteoporosis.
Unlike a conventional X-ray, which primarily produces images used to examine structures such as bones and joints, a DEXA scan is specifically designed to measure bone density. The examination most commonly evaluates the hip and lumbar spine because these areas provide important information about fracture risk and overall bone health.
Bone mineral density is an important factor in determining bone strength. As bone density decreases, bones may become more fragile and more likely to break following a fall or, in severe cases, during ordinary daily activities. A DEXA scan helps physicians identify this loss of density and interpret the findings alongside other factors, including age, medical history, medications, and previous fractures.
DEXA scans are commonly used to screen for osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor bone density over time. Your physician determines whether the examination is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
DEXA technology uses two different X-ray energy levels to measure how much radiation passes through the body. Because bone and soft tissue absorb X-rays differently, the scanner can estimate the mineral content of the examined bones and calculate bone mineral density.
During a typical examination, the patient lies on a padded table while the scanner moves over the area being evaluated. A computer processes the information collected by the machine to produce measurements that can be compared with established reference values. These measurements help the interpreting clinician determine whether bone density is normal, lower than expected, or within a range associated with osteoporosis.
The examination generally focuses on the hip and lower spine, although other sites, such as the forearm, may be assessed when medically appropriate. The specific areas examined depend on the patient’s medical history, the reason for testing, and the physician’s order.
A bone density scan provides information that helps physicians evaluate bone strength and the risk of fractures. Its most common use is to detect osteoporosis or identify low bone density before a serious fracture occurs. Because bone loss can progress gradually without causing pain or other obvious symptoms, testing can be an important part of preventive healthcare for people who have an increased risk of osteoporosis.
Physicians may recommend DEXA imaging for patients who have reached an age when routine bone density screening is appropriate, as well as for younger individuals with specific risk factors. These factors may include a previous fracture, certain medical conditions, long-term use of medications associated with bone loss, or a history that suggests an increased likelihood of osteoporosis.
DEXA scans can also help healthcare providers monitor changes in bone density over time. For example, a physician may recommend follow-up testing for someone receiving osteoporosis treatment to assess whether bone density has remained stable or changed. The timing of repeat examinations depends on the patient’s health, treatment plan, and clinical needs.
A DEXA scan does not evaluate every aspect of bone health or predict exactly when a fracture will occur. Instead, it provides one important piece of information that a physician combines with other clinical findings to determine the most appropriate care.
Not everyone needs a DEXA scan at the same age or at the same interval. Your physician considers your age, medical history, risk factors, and other health information when deciding whether bone density testing is appropriate.
In the United States, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends osteoporosis screening for women aged 65 and older and for postmenopausal women younger than 65 who are at increased risk. Screening recommendations for men and for people with certain medical conditions may differ, so individual clinical guidance is important.
Your physician may also recommend testing if you have experienced a fracture following a minor fall, have a condition associated with bone loss, or take medications that can weaken bones over time. Long-term use of glucocorticoid medications, for example, can increase osteoporosis risk in some patients.
Other factors that may lead a healthcare provider to consider bone density testing include:
A personal history of certain fractures.
A family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures.
Low body weight or other established osteoporosis risk factors.
Early menopause or other conditions affecting hormone levels.
Medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption or bone metabolism.
Treatment or monitoring for previously diagnosed osteoporosis.
These factors do not automatically mean that every individual needs a DEXA scan. Your healthcare provider can determine whether screening or follow-up testing is appropriate for your situation.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become less dense and more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. Healthy bones constantly undergo a process of breakdown and rebuilding. As people age or develop certain health conditions, this balance can shift, causing bone loss to occur faster than new bone forms.
One of the challenges of osteoporosis is that it often develops silently. A person may have no pain or obvious symptoms while bone density gradually decreases. In some cases, the first sign is a fracture after a relatively minor fall. Osteoporosis-related fractures can affect the hip, spine, wrist, and other bones, potentially limiting mobility and independence.
A DEXA scan helps physicians assess bone mineral density and identify people who may have osteoporosis or low bone density. Results are commonly reported using a T-score for appropriate patient groups. A T-score compares a person’s measured bone density with the average bone density of a healthy young adult reference population.
For postmenopausal women and men aged 50 and older, a T-score of -2.5 or lower at an appropriate diagnostic site is generally within the osteoporosis range. A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 is generally classified as low bone mass, also called osteopenia. These categories are part of a broader clinical assessment, and interpretation can differ for younger adults and other patient groups.
If your scan indicates low bone density, your physician may discuss lifestyle measures, nutrition, exercise, medication, or additional evaluation depending on your individual risk factors. A DEXA scan is a diagnostic tool, not a treatment by itself.
A DEXA bone density examination is generally straightforward, non-invasive, and comfortable for most patients. Before the scan begins, the imaging professional will confirm the examination and explain what you need to do. You will usually be asked to lie on a padded examination table while the scanner is positioned over the area being evaluated.
For a standard hip and spine scan, you may need to adjust your legs or use a positioning support so the machine can obtain accurate measurements. The scanner moves above your body without enclosing you in a tunnel. You will need to remain still during image acquisition because movement can affect the quality of the measurements.
The machine takes measurements using low-dose X-rays and sends the information to a computer for processing. The technologist may need to reposition you to examine another area, such as the hip or lower spine. The examination does not usually require injections, sedation, or an invasive procedure.
After the scan, the measurements are reviewed and interpreted through the diagnostic process. Your referring physician can then discuss the findings with you and explain whether additional monitoring or treatment is needed.
A DEXA scan is generally painless. You simply lie on the examination table while the scanner collects measurements. The machine does not usually touch you during the scanning process, and the examination does not involve needles or incisions.
Some people may experience mild discomfort from lying in one position, especially if they have back pain, arthritis, mobility limitations, or a recent injury. Positioning the legs or hips may also be uncomfortable for patients with certain conditions. Let the technologist know if you have difficulty lying flat or moving into a requested position.
The imaging team can explain the positioning process and help you understand what to expect during the examination. If you have a medical condition that makes certain movements difficult, mention it when scheduling your appointment so the team can provide appropriate guidance.
Yes. A DEXA scan uses a very low dose of ionizing X-ray radiation to measure bone mineral density. The radiation exposure is generally much lower than that of many other diagnostic imaging examinations, although the exact dose depends on the equipment and examination.
DEXA imaging is designed to provide useful bone density measurements with minimal radiation exposure. It is widely used because it offers a non-invasive method for assessing osteoporosis risk without requiring a surgical procedure or more extensive imaging.
As with any medical examination involving radiation, the decision to perform a DEXA scan should be based on the expected clinical benefit. Your physician determines whether the information gained from the examination is likely to help guide your care.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your physician and the imaging team before your appointment. They can assess the circumstances and determine the appropriate next steps.
For additional information about bone density testing, visit RadiologyInfo.org’s Bone Densitometry resource or the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Most DEXA scans require little preparation, but following the instructions provided by your imaging center can help your appointment go smoothly. In many cases, you can eat normally before the examination. However, you may be asked to avoid calcium supplements for a specified period before the scan because recently taken calcium can sometimes affect measurements.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, belts, or other metal components near the areas being examined. You may be asked to remove jewelry or change into a medical gown if your clothing could interfere with the examination.
Tell your healthcare provider and imaging team if you have recently undergone a barium examination, received contrast material for another imaging study, or had certain nuclear medicine procedures. These may affect the timing or interpretation of a bone density scan, depending on the circumstances.
It is also important to mention any previous hip or spine surgery, implanted hardware, or other medical devices that could affect the measurements. Your care team can determine whether these details influence the examination or how the results should be interpreted.
For general instructions about getting ready for an imaging appointment, visit Broadway Imaging Center’s Procedure Preparation Guide.
Broadway Imaging Center’s preparation information recommends arriving approximately 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment and bringing your photo ID and insurance card.
Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the directions provided for your specific examination. If you are unsure whether you should take calcium supplements, what clothing to wear, or whether recent imaging could affect your scan, call 818-548-0022 before your appointment.
Preparing your documents in advance can help simplify the check-in process. Before leaving home, confirm any instructions provided by your physician, insurance company, or imaging center.
For your appointment, bring:
A valid photo ID.
Your current insurance card.
Your physician’s order or referral, if required.
Any insurance authorization documentation requested for the examination.
Information about previous bone density scans, if available.
Previous DEXA results can be particularly useful when your physician wants to compare bone density over time. If you have had a scan at another facility, let your healthcare provider know so the earlier report or images can be obtained when appropriate.
Insurance coverage and referral requirements vary. If you have questions about whether your plan covers bone density testing or requires prior authorization, contact your insurance provider and Broadway Imaging Center before your visit.
A typical DEXA bone density examination often takes approximately 10 to 30 minutes, although the actual duration depends on the type of scan, the areas being measured, and individual positioning needs. Some examinations may be shorter, while others may require additional time.
The technologist will help you position your body so the machine can collect the necessary measurements. You will need to remain still while the scanner works, but the process is generally uncomplicated and does not require recovery time.
You can typically resume your normal daily activities immediately after a routine DEXA scan unless your healthcare provider has given you other instructions. The results are reviewed as part of the diagnostic process, and your physician can explain the findings when the report is available.
If you need an estimate for your specific examination, contact Broadway Imaging Center when scheduling your appointment.
DEXA scan results provide information about bone mineral density and can help physicians assess osteoporosis risk. The report may include measurements from the hip and lower spine, along with scores that compare your bone density with established reference populations.
For many postmenopausal women and men aged 50 and older, the T-score is used to classify bone density. The general categories are:
| T-score | General classification |
|---|---|
| -1.0 or higher | Normal bone density |
| Below -1.0 but above -2.5 | Low bone mass (osteopenia) |
| -2.5 or lower | Osteoporosis range |
These categories are general clinical guidelines, and their use depends on the patient’s age, sex, and clinical circumstances. For children, younger adults, and certain other groups, healthcare providers may rely more heavily on Z-scores and other information rather than applying the same T-score criteria.
A DEXA result does not tell the entire story about fracture risk. Your physician may also consider your age, history of fractures, medications, family history, and other medical factors. In some cases, a fracture-risk assessment tool may help estimate the likelihood of future fractures.
If you have previously been diagnosed with osteoporosis, repeat testing may help your physician evaluate changes in bone density over time. Comparisons are most meaningful when differences in equipment, measurement sites, and other technical factors are taken into account.
Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and discuss whether monitoring, lifestyle changes, medication, or further evaluation is appropriate.
We understand that medical imaging can raise questions, particularly when a physician is evaluating osteoporosis or another condition that may affect your long-term health. Broadway Imaging Center aims to provide a professional environment and clear information about scheduling and preparing for your examination.
Our team can help explain the general appointment process and direct you to the appropriate preparation instructions. Your physician remains the best person to explain why the scan was ordered and how the findings may influence your care.
DEXA imaging provides specialized information about bone mineral density that is different from the information obtained through routine X-rays. The examination can support your physician’s evaluation of bone health, osteoporosis, and fracture risk.
Broadway Imaging Center offers a range of diagnostic imaging services, including MRI, CT scans, ultrasound, digital X-ray, and mammography. The appropriate examination depends on your physician’s order and the medical question being investigated.
Broadway Imaging Center is located in Glendale, California, serving patients seeking diagnostic imaging in Glendale and surrounding Los Angeles communities. Having access to an imaging facility in the area can make it more convenient to arrange an examination requested by your healthcare provider.
If your physician has recommended a bone density scan, contact the center to ask about appointment availability, preparation instructions, and any documentation you may need.
Broadway Imaging Center advertises extended hours seven days a week, which may provide additional flexibility when arranging diagnostic imaging. Appointment availability can vary by examination, so contact the center to confirm the available times for DEXA imaging.
In addition to DEXA bone density imaging, Broadway Imaging Center provides other diagnostic imaging services, including MRI, CT, ultrasound, digital X-ray, and mammography. This range of services supports patients who have different imaging needs based on their physicians’ recommendations.
If you are unsure about the preparation process or what to bring to your appointment, our team can help you find the relevant information before your scheduled visit.
If you are searching for a DEXA scan in Glendale, CA, Broadway Imaging Center can help you with information about arranging a bone density examination requested by your healthcare provider. DEXA imaging is widely used to evaluate bone mineral density and help physicians identify osteoporosis or low bone mass.
The examination is generally quick, non-invasive, and associated with a very low radiation dose. It can be particularly useful for people with an increased risk of osteoporosis, patients with a previous diagnosis, and individuals whose physicians recommend monitoring bone density over time.
Before scheduling, confirm that you have the necessary physician’s order and understand any preparation instructions. If you have had previous bone density testing, let your healthcare provider know because earlier results may help with comparisons.
For patients in Glendale and nearby communities, Broadway Imaging Center can provide information about scheduling, preparation, and documentation requirements for a DEXA scan.
If your physician has recommended a bone density examination and you are looking for DEXA imaging in Glendale, California, contact Broadway Imaging Center to ask about scheduling your appointment.
Our team can help answer general questions about appointment preparation, required documentation, and scheduling. Before your visit, follow the instructions provided for your examination and inform your healthcare provider if you have concerns about medications, recent imaging procedures, or possible pregnancy.
Call Broadway Imaging Center at 818-548-0022 to ask about scheduling your DEXA scan.
Address: 140 N Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91206
Phone: 818-548-0022
Procedure Preparation: https://broadwayimagingcenter.com/procedure-preparation/
A DEXA bone density scan is an important diagnostic tool that helps physicians evaluate bone health, identify low bone density, and assess the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. By measuring bone mineral density, the examination provides information that can support decisions about preventive care, treatment, and follow-up monitoring.
The procedure is generally quick, painless, and requires little preparation. Following your imaging center’s instructions, bringing the appropriate documents, and sharing relevant medical information can help your appointment go smoothly. Your physician will interpret the results alongside your medical history and other risk factors to determine what the findings mean for your health.
For DEXA bone density imaging in Glendale, CA, contact Broadway Imaging Center to ask about scheduling and preparing for your examination.
Call 818-548-0022 for appointment information.
A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density and helps physicians evaluate osteoporosis and low bone mass. It can also support the assessment of fracture risk and help monitor changes in bone density over time. Your physician determines whether testing is appropriate based on your age, medical history, and risk factors.
No. A DEXA scan is generally painless and does not involve injections or surgery. You lie on an examination table while the scanner collects measurements. Some people may experience mild discomfort if they have difficulty lying flat or positioning their hips and legs.
A typical DEXA examination often takes about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the areas being examined and individual positioning needs. Most patients can return to their usual daily activities immediately afterward. Contact your imaging center for guidance about your specific appointment.
Most DEXA scans do not require fasting, but preparation instructions may include avoiding calcium supplements for a specified period before the examination. Follow the instructions provided by your imaging center and physician. If you are unsure whether to take your usual supplements or medications, ask your healthcare provider before changing your routine.
Broadway Imaging Center is located at 140 N Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91206. If your physician has recommended a bone density scan, call 818-548-0022 to ask about scheduling, preparation instructions, and any referral or insurance requirements.
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