What is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan (short for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a quick, painless test that measures how strong your bones are. It tells your doctor whether your bones are healthy, thinning, or at risk for fractures.
Why is it done?
A DEXA scan helps to:
- Check for osteoporosis (bone thinning)
- See if you’re at risk for breaking a bone
- Monitor how well bone-strengthening treatments are working
What happens during the test?
- You’ll lie comfortably on a padded table.
- A small scanning arm passes over your body—usually your lower spine and hips.
- You won’t feel anything; the scan is not painful.
- It uses a very small amount of X-ray radiation, much less than a standard chest X-ray.
The whole process usually takes 10–20 minutes.
How do I prepare?
- You can eat and drink normally.
- Avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test.
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal (like zippers or buttons), if possible.
What do the results mean?
You’ll get a T-score, which compares your bone strength to that of a healthy young adult:
- Normal: strong bones
- Osteopenia: mild bone loss
- Osteoporosis: significant bone loss, higher risk of fractures
Your doctor will explain your results and let you know if any treatment or lifestyle changes are recommended.
Body composition
What is a Body Composition DEXA Scan?
A Body Composition DEXA scan is a quick, painless test that shows what your body is made of. It measures:
- Body fat
- Lean muscle
- Bone mass
It gives a detailed picture of your overall health—not just your weight.
Why is it done?
A body composition scan can help you and your healthcare team:
- Track fat loss and muscle gain
- Monitor progress during weight loss or fitness programs
- Check for healthy muscle balance between the right and left sides of your body
- Evaluate health risks linked to high body fat
What happens during the test?
- You lie comfortably on a padded table.
- A small scanning arm moves over your body.
- You won’t feel anything; the scan is completely painless.
- It uses a very low amount of X-ray radiation.
- The scan usually takes 10–20 minutes.
How do I prepare?
Preparation is simple:
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal (zippers, snaps, underwire bras).
- Try to avoid heavy exercise or large meals right before the test for the most accurate results.
- You can eat and drink normally.
What do the results show?
Your report will include:
- Total body fat percentage
- Lean muscle mass (overall and in each arm, leg, and trunk)
- Bone mineral content
- Visceral fat (fat around your organs)
Your provider can use this information to help personalise nutrition, exercise, or weight-management plans.
