Nothing to fast
Unlike some imaging tests, there's no fasting required. Eat and drink normally before your appointment. No need to stop medications, either.
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Patient Guide
Preparing for your scan
The short version: there's almost nothing you need to do. Here's exactly what to expect, so nothing about the appointment is a surprise.
How to prepare
Four things worth knowing — and three of them are just reminders, not requirements.
Wear what's comfortable
Loose, comfortable clothing is easiest — particularly around the waist, since we scan your lower back and hip. Metal zippers, buttons, and belts get in the way more than anything else.
Bring your information
A photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any previous bone density results if you have them. Past scans give your physician a comparison point.
Tell us about your history
Let us know if you have a referring physician, if you've had prior scans elsewhere, or if there's anything about your health or mobility we should accommodate.
No fasting, no medication changes, no needles. If you've had a DEXA scan before and were told to avoid calcium supplements beforehand, that doesn't apply here — REMS requires no special preparation.
What happens during your visit
- 1
Before your scan
You'll be at the center for about 15 minutes in total. Arrive about 10 minutes early for check-in. There's no waiting room marathon — and you can drive yourself there and back.
- 2
During the scan
You'll lie comfortably while a probe is passed over the surface of your skin at your lower back and hip. It's painless and non-invasive — no needles, no injections, no discomfort. The ultrasound works on the same principle as the one used in pregnancy.
- 3
After the scan
Your scan is analyzed and a report is prepared for you and your physician, covering bone mineral density, T-score, Z-score, and the Fragility Score for both the spine and the femoral neck. If you have a referring physician, we're glad to send the results directly to their office.
Getting here
Our address
244 Livingston St Suite E, Northvale, NJ 07647
Parking
Free on-site parking, directly at the center.
Accessibility
Step-free, ground-floor access throughout.
Time to allow
About 15 minutes in total, including check-in.
Ready when you are
No preparation, no radiation, about 15 minutes. If you have any questions before your appointment, call us — we're glad to walk you through it.
After your scan: how to read your results.