Quick Take

• Bone density ≠ bone strength.
• Most fractures occur in people without “osteoporotic” BMD.
• Technical and interpretation errors are common.
• Body size and machine differences skew results.

1) Error rates are high—and many are serious

Dr. Brown notes that a large share of bone density reports contain errors, and a substantial portion of those can be clinically significant—leading to misdiagnosis or overtreatment. Even small reported changes (±1–2%) often fall within normal variability and are not worth panicking over.

2) Many sources of technical error

Operator technique and analytic choices matter—a lot. Misplacement on the table, incorrect region-of-interest selection, or line-drawing can all alter the result. Dr. Brown has long cautioned that DEXA’s accuracy and reproducibility are imperfect (how accurate is DEXA?), so single data points shouldn’t drive major treatment decisions.

3) Bias against smaller or thinner bodies

DEXA can underestimate density in small, thin, or short individuals, contributing to unnecessary worry or labeling. See Dr. Brown’s discussion of size-related bias in bone density testing and why “thin but strong” is possible when bone quality is high (learn more).

4) Bone density does not measure bone strength

BMD is a measure of mineral content—not toughness, flexibility, or microarchitecture. That’s why Dr. Brown emphasizes complementary ways to assess bone quality (e.g., Trabecular Bone Score) and bone turnover (NTx test).

5) DEXA alone can’t predict who will fracture

Most so-called “osteoporotic” fractures occur in people with osteopenic or even normal bone density. DEXA is one risk factor among many (BMD does not predict fracture; density tests aren’t enough). A broader assessment of risk (history, falls, meds, inflammation, nutrition, strength, balance, etc.) is essential (3 ways to predict fracture risk).

6) Machine brand & site differences distort comparisons

Hologic vs. GE Lunar outputs aren’t directly interchangeable. For trend tracking, try to test on the same brand, in the same facility, with the same operator whenever possible (why same machine matters; what happens when machines change).

7) Calibration and interpretation issues are common

Inadequate machine calibration and hurried or outdated interpretations can skew results. Dr. Brown encourages learning the basics—like the difference between the T-score and Z-score—so you can have an informed conversation with your provider.

So…what should you do instead?

• If you test, test smart: use the same brand/site/operator when possible, and don’t overreact to tiny changes.
• Widen the lens: consider bone quality (e.g., TBS) and turnover (e.g., urine NTx), balance/falls risk, muscle strength, medication and health history, and nutrition.
• Think beyond density: explore emerging tools like REMS ultrasound that may better reflect bone strength without radiation.

Related Better Bones resources

• How accurate is a DEXA bone density test?
• Small changes in bone density results—should you worry?
• Bone density tests aren’t enough—why a fracture risk assessment is essential
• BMD does not predict fracture
• The infamous T-score & neglected Z-score
• DEXA scan: help for understanding your results
• Bone quality in thinner women

FAQ

Does low bone density mean I’ll fracture?

Not necessarily. Many fractures occur in people with osteopenic or normal BMD. Risk is multifactorial—look at the whole picture.

Should I start medication based on one DEXA?

One snapshot is rarely enough. Discuss trends, other risks, and secondary testing with a knowledgeable provider.

How often should I repeat DEXA?

It depends on your personal risk and whether results will change management. When you do repeat, aim for the same brand/site/operator.