What Is a Dexa Scan and Why Should You Get One?

Woman laying down getting Dexa Scan

If you’re concerned about conditions like osteoporosis, a Dexa scan can help monitor your bone strength and body composition. This test gives you a complete picture of your bone health and fitness, so you can take preventive steps before serious issues arise.

Dr. Douglas Hilbert, MD, FACP, is a highly regarded internal medicine physician in San Antonio, Texas. He offers Dexa scans right from our office to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. His expertise and patient-centered approach have made him a trusted resource in our community.

About the Dexa Scan

The Dexa scan, also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density and body composition. It focuses on areas most prone to fractures, like the hips and spine, while also analyzing your muscle mass, fat levels, and metabolic rate. 

The procedure is simple and painless. You lie down while the machine scans your body, and the entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes. Results are available shortly after, and in many cases, Dr. Hilbert will review them with you on the same day.

Do You Need to Get a Dexa Scan?

We recommend a Dexa scan to anyone who wants to monitor bone health or track fitness levels. As we age, bone density naturally decreases, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Early detection of bone loss can help you prevent issues down the road. 

Your body composition results can also influence your diet, fitness routine, supplements, or other treatments to help you be as healthy as possible. 

This type of scan is most helpful for:

  • Postmenopausal women
  • Women over 40
  • Men over 50
  • Anyone with risk factors for bone loss, such as a history of fractures, certain medications, or a family history of osteoporosis. 
  • Athletes who want to track muscle mass and optimize performance
  • Individuals on weight loss journeys 
  • People interested in improving their metabolic health
  • Fitness enthusiasts who want to know their exact body composition

With early enough detection, you can take control of your bone and body health and stay active for years to come.

Schedule Your Dexa Scan With Dr. Douglas Hilbert in San Antonio

Dr. Douglas Hilbert and his team in San Antonio help patients protect their bone health through comprehensive evaluations. Call 210-614-4000 today or contact us online to schedule your Dexa scan. 

Don’t Hesitate To
Contact Us

Have a question? Get in touch now!

Book An Appointment

*All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Accessibility Toolbar