Frequently Asked Questions
We get a lot of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand how to benefit from your body composition measurements.
DEXAnalysis Will Help You Navigate The Road To Better Fitness.
What Exactly Is A DEXA Scan?
DEXA scans are the gold standard for body composition testing. DEXA scans use high-precision spectral imagery to determine bone density, as well as accurate measurements of how much fat, and lean mass you actually have.
Can I Eat or Drink Before My Scan?
Absolutely, feel free to eat, drink and stick to your normal diet. Eating or drinking normal amounts will not significantly impact your DEXA scan results. The only thing you should not take before your scan is calcium supplements. Refrain from any calcium supplements at least 24 hours before your scan.
How often should I Test?
To allow sufficient time for your body to respond to your health and fitness efforts, you should give about 1 month between scans. Some people want to see significant differences, and others want to maintain muscle mass & bone density. So, depending on what you are looking for, one month between tests will be sufficient enough to obtain reliable results.
Will A DEXA Scan Take Long to Complete?
No, your scan will only take about 10 minutes to complete. That is fast enough to be completed during your break time, lunchtime, or before/after your workout.
How Can I Prepare for My DEXA Scan?
There is very little preparation required for your DEXA scan, the only thing we ask is that you arrive on time and wear comfortable clothing with little to no metal (avoid clothing with zippers or bra underwires) . Although there are no fasting requirements before a DEXA scan, it is advised that you keep similar food/water intake before each subsequential test for consistency.
How much radiation do I get from a DEXA scan?
The amount of radiation from a DEXA scan is negligible and less than your daily background radiation(radiation from the sun/soil/buildings/foods). Our scans are safe and only emit 0.4 microsieverts of radiation, equivalent to the amount you would receive eating 4 bananas.
What Happens If I Need To Reschedule My Scan?
You can reschedule your scan with at least 24 hours notice.
Do I need to be a member of the gym that is hosting a DEXAnalysis scan event?
In most circumstances you do not need to be a member of the hosting gym. For the few events that are private we make sure to mark them as such on our websites calendar.
Am i getting a diagnostic bone density DEXA scan?
DEXAnalysis does not provide diagnostic bone density DEXA scans. Our primary goal is to provide body composition data to help improve your fitness journey. For diagnostic bone density DEXA scans please contact your doctor or healthcare provider.
Can I Get a DEXA Scan If I Am Pregnant?
It is not advisable to receive any amount of radiation if you are pregnant. For that reason, we do not perform any type of scans on those who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant.
What is the maximum weight limit for a DEXAnalysis DEXA scan?
Our DEXA scan Machines can support clients up to 325 pounds.
Can I Get A DEXA Scan With A Pacemaker or Metal Implant?
Absolutely, DEXA scans are completely safe for anyone with a pacemaker. Your pacemaker or any other metal implant will be registered as bone on your scan but it will not impact you body fat or lean tissue results in a significant way. Just tell your DEXA scan technician where your metal implants or pacemaker is located so they can properly analyze your results.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is standing by to answer any questions, and help you book your DEXA scan today! Just give us a call.