What is a DEXA Score? | Bone Density, T-Scores, and What You Can Do About It | PYHP 164

In this episode, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki break down how to interpret your DEXA scan results—and why it matters, especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. We explain what your T-score and Z-score actually mean, how estrogen and menopause affect your bones, and what you can do to prevent or slow bone loss naturally.   Whether you’re already on HRT or just starting to explore options for protecting your bone health, this episode gives you clear, actionable insights to help you feel strong, confident, and informed.   In this episode, you’ll learn: What a T-score means—and how to understand the risk ranges What a Z-score tells you (and why it’s different from T-score) How menopause and estrogen decline impact bone density The role of HRT in maintaining or improving bone strength How weight-bearing exercise helps preserve bone mass Natural strategies to prevent bone loss (beyond calcium and vitamin D) Real examples of patients’ DEXA scans and how their scores changed over time   Perfect for you if: You’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and wondering what your bone scan means—or how to keep your bones strong during the hormonal transition.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.