Frequently asked questions

REMS stands for Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry. It's an ultrasound technology that evaluates both your bone density and your bone quality, with no X-rays and no radiation exposure. A DEXA scan uses X-ray radiation. REMS also measures bone quality — not just density — which can catch risk that a density reading alone would miss.

Yes. Unlike a DEXA scan, REMS uses no ionizing radiation and no X-rays. The CDC notes that even small doses of radiation should be avoided if practical, and their guidance for radiation safety is ALARA — as low as reasonably achievable. REMS testing has no ionizing radiation at all.

Yes. REMS technology designed by Echolight has been approved by the FDA for use in the United States for bone density diagnostics.

Every REMS test at Bostdia is completed by a licensed ultrasound technician or a registered nurse. We hold our team to the highest standards of skill, safety protocol, and respect for the people we serve.

You'll be at the center for about 15 minutes in total. The scan itself is painless and non-invasive — a probe is passed over the surface of your skin at your lower back and hip. There's no fasting, no preparation, nothing to change out of, and no needles. You can drive yourself there and back.

There's nothing you need to do to prepare. No fasting, no special clothing, and no need to stop any medications. Just come as you are. If you'd like, bring a list of your current medications and any previous bone density results so we can include them with your report.

Your scan is analyzed and a report is prepared for you and your physician. We'll let you know the timing when you book — and if you have a referring physician, we're glad to send the results directly to their office.

No referral is required to book with us. Many patients come to us on a physician's recommendation, and we are glad to share your results with your care team. If you do have a referring physician, let us know when you book.

Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, of fertile age, or living with anorexia may need more frequent bone density testing. Because DEXA involves X-ray exposure, it is not recommended in these cases. REMS is a safe and effective option for anyone advised to avoid DEXA scans and radiation.

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of DEXA inaccuracy. Calcium buildup associated with arthritis can distort a DEXA reading, producing a false result that then informs treatment decisions. REMS filters out those distortions — along with several other issues that affect DEXA — providing a more accurate clinical picture.

Until recently, REMS testing was offered at only a handful of facilities in the United States. While there is a large body of research showing its accuracy and safety record, many physicians are not yet aware of it. As REMS reports circulate more widely, the number of doctors who understand and prescribe REMS continues to increase.

Because REMS involves no radiation, it can be repeated for monitoring as often as your physician recommends — without the cumulative radiation concerns that come with repeated X-ray based testing. Many patients use it to track changes in bone health over time.

Yes. Your report includes bone mineral density, a T-score, a Z-score, and the Fragility Score — a measure of bone quality that published research has shown predicts fracture risk more accurately than density alone. Together these give your physician a clear picture of where your bone health stands.

We don't publish coverage or pricing information here, because it varies so much from person to person. Call us and we'll gladly answer any questions you have about your specific situation.

You can book online or call us at 833-454-7263. Our center is at 244 Livingston St Suite E, Northvale, NJ 07647, with free on-site parking and step-free access. We serve patients across New York and New Jersey.