A patient undergoes a forearm bone density scan at Blackrock DXA, lying on the examination table as the GE Lunar DXA scanner emits a guiding red laser over the wrist area.

Preparation Guide for Your DXA Scan

Preparing for your DXA scan is simple, but following a few important steps helps ensure the most accurate results and a smooth experience.

Before Your Appointment

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Referral Letter Required

All patients must have a referral from their GP or consultant before a scan can be scheduled. If you haven’t submitted your referral yet, you can do so here:
Submit Your Referral
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What to Wear

  • Wear comfortable clothing
  • Avoid metal around the waist or hips (e.g. belts, zips, or buttons)
  • If possible, wear a sports bra or a bra without metal hooks or wires
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What to Bring

  • A list of your current medications.
  • Names of previous bone-related medications and the date you stopped taking them.
  • Any relevant medical history such as past fractures or surgeries.
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Supplement & Medication Notes

  • Avoid taking calcium supplements in the 24 hours before your scan.
  • Continue all other medications as directed by your doctor unless told otherwise.

Special Notes
for Female Patients

You will be asked the date of your last period when booking.

Please reschedule your scan if you may be pregnant.
Happy patient and DXA technologist talking

When You Arrive

Arrive 10 minutes early to complete a short questionnaire.

Make sure to have an empty bladder.

Your height and weight will be measured by the DXA Nurse Specialist and recorded in your scan profile.

You will be asked to lie on your back and your side, depending on the area being scanned.

A cushioned block may be placed under your legs for positioning.

The scan is non-invasive, painless, and takes around 15–20 minutes. The DXA Nurse Specialist stays in the room with you throughout.
A patient lies on her side with her arm positioned in a support frame for a DXA scan at Blackrock DXA. In the background, a technician in blue scrubs monitors the scan from a nearby computer workstation.

Body Composition Scans

If you are undergoing a Body Composition Analysis (separate from a standard bone scan), please follow these instructions:

Fast for 4–6 hours before your appointment (including water).

Avoid physical activity for 4–6 hours prior.
Make sure to empty your bladder just before the scan.

This scan involves a full-body image and uses a very small amount of radiation. It must be specifically requested on your referral letter and justified by your doctor.

This scan involves a full-body image and uses a very small amount of radiation. It must be specifically requested on your referral letter and justified by your doctor.