What is a REMS scan? The future of bone health assessment

Breaking down the basics of REMS scans.
someone being administered a REMS scan on their spine

When it comes to keeping our bones strong and healthy, early detection of problems is key. You may have heard of bone density scans like DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), which help doctors assess your risk of fractures or conditions like osteoporosis. But there’s a newer, cutting-edge technology making waves in the world of bone health: the REMS scan.

When it comes to keeping our bones strong and healthy, early detection of problems is key. You may have heard of bone density scans like DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), which help doctors assess your risk of fractures or conditions like osteoporosis. But there’s a newer, cutting-edge technology making waves in the world of bone health: the REMS scan.

REMS explained

REMS stands for Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry. It’s a non-invasive, radiation-free way to assess bone health. Unlike traditional methods that use X-rays, REMS uses ultrasound technology – the same kind used during pregnancy.

It uses sound waves to build up a picture of the density and quality of your bones, typically at key sites like the spine and hip, which are most prone to fractures.

woman receiving a REMS scan on her thigh

REMS explained

REMS stands for Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry. It’s a non-invasive, radiation-free way to assess bone health. Unlike traditional methods that use X-rays, REMS uses ultrasound technology – the same kind used during pregnancy.

It uses sound waves to build up a picture of the density and quality of your bones, typically at key sites like the spine and hip, which are most prone to fractures.

woman receiving a REMS scan on her thigh

Is REMS a game-changer?

Radiation-free: Traditional bone scans like DEXA use a small dose of radiation. Because REMS uses ultrasound technology, it doesn’t use any radiation at all, making it a safer option for frequent monitoring – especially for younger patients or those with chronic conditions.

More than just density: REMS doesn’t just look at how dense your bones are. It also analyses the bone’s internal structure, giving a more complete picture of your bone strength and fracture risk1.

Portable and accessible: Because REMS scanners are small and mobile, they can be used in a wider range of healthcare settings – including outpatient clinics, wellness centres, or at community health events. 

Is REMS a game-changer?

Radiation-free: Traditional bone scans like DEXA use a small dose of radiation. Because REMS uses ultrasound technology, it doesn’t use any radiation at all, making it a safer option for frequent monitoring – especially for younger patients or those with chronic conditions.

More than just density: REMS doesn’t just look at how dense your bones are. It also analyses the bone’s internal structure, giving a more complete picture of your bone strength and fracture risk1.

Portable and accessible: Because REMS scanners are small and mobile, they can be used in a wider range of healthcare settings – including outpatient clinics, wellness centres, or at community health events. 

Who should consider a REMS scan?

REMS is especially helpful for:

  • People at risk of osteoporosis or fractures
  • Postmenopausal women
  • People who need frequent bone monitoring, such as children or those with chronic conditions
  • Athletes, or those recovering from injury, who want detailed insights into their bone health
older woman stretching in a park

Who should consider a REMS scan?

REMS is especially helpful for:

  • People at risk of osteoporosis or fractures
  • Postmenopausal women
  • People who need frequent bone monitoring, such as children or those with chronic conditions
  • Athletes, or those recovering from injury, who want detailed insights into their bone health
older woman stretching in a park

Looking ahead

As REMS technology becomes more widely available, it’s opening the door to earlier detection and more personalised care when it comes to bone health.

If you’re curious about your bone health or have concerns about osteoporosis, a REMS scan could be right for you.

If you are interested in getting a REMS scan, or have any questions, get in touch with us at [email protected].

Looking ahead

As REMS technology becomes more widely available, it’s opening the door to earlier detection and more personalised care when it comes to bone health.

If you’re curious about your bone health or have concerns about osteoporosis, a REMS scan could be right for you.

If you are interested in getting a REMS scan, or have any questions, get in touch with us at [email protected].

References

  1. Al Refaie A, et al. (2023) Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry (R.E.M.S.): New Frontiers for Ultrasound Use in the Assessment of Bone Status-A Current Picture. Diagnostics. 13(10):1666.

References

  1. Al Refaie A, et al. (2023) Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry (R.E.M.S.): New Frontiers for Ultrasound Use in the Assessment of Bone Status-A Current Picture. Diagnostics. 13(10):1666.