Frequently asked questions

  • REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi-Spectrometry) is an advanced, radiation-free bone assessment technology that uses ultrasound and analyzes raw radiofrequency signals to estimate bone mineral density (BMD) at clinically relevant sites like the lumbar spine and hip.

  • A standard ultrasound creates images. REMS goes further by analyzing the radiofrequency ultrasound signal characteristics and comparing them to reference models to estimate BMD and support fracture-risk insight

  • DEXA uses a low-dose X-ray and a 2D projection approach to estimate BMD. REMS estimates BMD using ultrasound signal analysis—without ionizing radiation.

  • Peer-reviewed studies comparing REMS to DXA report strong correlation and clinically useful agreement at the lumbar spine and femoral neck, with an important caveat: correct acquisition and trained operation matter.

  • Common reasons include:

    • Wanting a radiation-free assessment

    • Wanting clear, repeatable monitoring over time

    • Wanting an approach designed to reduce the impact of common spine artifact issues seen in some DXA readings

  • DXA lumbar spine results can be affected by dense structures in the scan path—like degenerative changes/osteophytesand vascular (aortic) calcification—which can make BMD appear higher than it truly is, sometimes reducing sensitivity for detecting osteoporosis in certain people.

  • REMS evaluations are commonly performed at the lumbar spine and proximal femur (hip/femoral neck)—key sites used in osteoporosis assessment and fracture-risk evaluation.

  • Most visits are efficient, and results are typically available in about 30 minutes (allow a little longer if you want a deeper discussion).

  • Preparation is simple. To support lumbar spine scan quality, best practice is:

    • Avoid a large meal for 4–5 hours beforehand (gas/fullness can interfere with imaging)

    • Avoid carbonated beverages in the few hours prior

    • Water is fine

    • Wear comfortable clothing

    • Arrive 10–15 minutes early
      (If you have prior DXA reports, bring them — optional but helpful.)

  • Sometimes image acquisition is limited by factors like significant abdominal gas/fullness or body habitus (for example, when most weight is carried in the abdomen). This is one reason we recommend light prep and consistent positioning.

  • No. Many clients book directly for an assessment and education visit. If you’re under a physician’s care (or have complex medical issues), we encourage you to share results as part of your broader clinical plan.

  • No. SonoHealth CA provides bone health assessment and education. We don’t diagnose disease or replace medical care. Your results are best interpreted alongside your history, risk factors, and clinician guidance.

  • You’ll receive:

    • Instant results and a copy of your scan results will be emailed to you within 24-48 hours.

    • A plain-English review of what the findings generally mean

    • Practical next-step guidance (monitoring interval, lifestyle focus areas, and when to follow up with your physician)

  • It depends on your risk level and goals:

    • Higher risk or active intervention: 6 months

    • Monitoring/trending: 6-12 months

    • Lower risk baseline tracking: 12-24 months
      (Your clinician may recommend a different timeline based on medical context.)

  • Yes — if you bring your prior DXA report, we can help you understand how the results relate and how to think about trends. (Different technologies can measure differently, so interpretation should focus on clinical context and pattern over time.)

  • Prospective research supports REMS-derived measures (including T-score) as predictors of incident fragility fractures in studied populations, and additional REMS-based indicators (e.g., Fragility Score) have been evaluated for fracture-risk prediction.

  • Can I share my results with my physician?

  • Like any assessment method, REMS results depend on correct acquisition and appropriate technique; research specifically notes the importance of training and minimizing erroneous acquisitions.
    Some individuals may also be harder to scan depending on anatomy and other factors. If you’re concerned, call us and we’ll advise.

  • The EchoS Family (Echolight) has an FDA 510(k) clearance listing in the U.S.

  • REMS is ultrasound-based, not X-ray based. Many people with orthopedic history still complete bone assessments, but scan feasibility depends on the site and anatomy. If you have complex surgical history, tell us ahead of time so we can advise.

  • Coverage varies by plan and carrier. Many clients choose self-pay. If you want to pursue reimbursement, we can provide documentation you may need for submission.

  • Calm and guided. We explain each step, keep the pace comfortable, and make sure you leave understanding what you just did and what your results mean.

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