Puzzling DEXA result

[skinnykangal]

Does anyone know if it is possible for the spine to show an improvement in bone density whilst at the same time the femur shows a slight deterioration?

Today I had a DEXA scan which showed that result. I can't be sure if that is even a possible result or if it is perhaps erroneous, due to new operator (same machine).

Since 2021 I have been gradually improving my bone density mainly with diet and exercise.

Last year my spine had a Z score of -0.4 and my femur -0.7.

Today my spine showed 1.1 (normal) and my femur -1.2.

I appreciate the femur is a big dense bone and may take longer to show improvements than a vertebrae but is it possible/probable one would continue to improve whilst the other deteriorates?

Any advice welcomed!

[Rovelli]

Yes, this happened to me. Improved hip but worse spine. I think it's entirely possible. I don't have absolute faith in the accuracy of the machines. (and I take good news where I can get it!)

[fraid in reply to Rovelli]

Hi, just got your new book on White Holes! 🤗😁

[Rovelli in reply to fraid]

Not really me, but I am becoming entranced by the universe as a flat disc made up of information.

[Met00]

Unless you've been taking medication or a supplement that has a greater impact on the spine than the hip, then the most likely explanation is that an error was made in one or both of your DEXA scans. However, just a thought, do you have your bone mineral density (BMD) measurements for comparison? Sometimes they update the database on which z-scores and t-scores are calculated, so there's a remote chance that that might be the explanation. Actual BMD measurements aren't affected by any such update.

[restlesspegs]

The same thing happened to me (confirmed on 2 separate DEXA machines). Have you been doing plenty of weight bearing activities? Resistance training? That seems to influence the spine to a far greater degree than the femoral neck, according to clinical data and also in my experience.

The femoral neck responds well to impact. Skipping, hopping, jumping, etc. Lots of studies backing this up (usually in postmenopausal women) so worth adding to your routine if you are able to safely and are not doing so already.

[Arie4]

Wonderful for you!! Nice work! I agree, your test results are interesting & I see already many great replies that may explain that.

May I ask, please, are you lifting weights?

Many thanks!

[DeannaAlphi]

My GP would not give my dexa scan results the time of day. He wouldn't even look at them let alone discuss them. My second dexa scan taken on the same machine proved that they are nonsense. Had a private REMS scan and that consultant explained why the dexa results were nonsense.

My attitude now, is just stop doing things bones don't like where possible.....and do as many things possible to improve not only density but also strength....niether of which can be measured accurately.