Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) of the lumbar spine and hip is the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis, along with the assessment of clinical risk factors. The DEXA X-ray is a noninvasive technique that measures the bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine and hips. Smaller versions of DEXA instruments can be found at health fairs and some pharmacies however these are used to measure the BMD of smaller bones such as the heel of the foot and are not considered to be as accurate as the larger, standard DEXA instruments.
