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DEXA bone density scans.

A DEXA scan measures the strength of your bones using a very low dose of X-rays. It is the standard test for osteoporosis, and can also measure body fat and muscle.

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A woman lying under the arm of a DEXA bone density scanner

No NHS referralOur private GP assesses you and arranges the scan

Within daysAppointments usually available within days

48-hour reportConsultant radiologist report, typically within 48 hours

GP-reviewedResults explained, next steps arranged

In short

Quick and gentle. You lie on a padded table for around 10 to 20 minutes while an arm passes over you. Nothing goes around you.
Very low radiation. Much less than a chest X-ray.
Linked to treatment. If your bones are thinning, effective treatments can reduce the chance of a fracture.

Who it helps

Women after the menopause, and men over 50, with risk factors
A previous fracture from a minor fall
Long-term steroid tablets, or medicines that affect bone
Early menopause, low body weight, smoking or heavy drinking
A parent who broke a hip
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease or an overactive thyroid

Your GP first calculates your 10-year fracture risk using FRAX, the tool recommended in UK guidance, and arranges a DEXA scan when it will help decide on treatment.

A DEXA image showing bone, fat and lean muscle across the whole body

Understanding your result

Bone density is reported as a T-score, which compares your bones with those of a healthy young adult.

−1.0 or aboveNormal

−1.0 to −2.5Osteopenia (lower than average)

−2.5 or belowOsteoporosis

World Health Organization definitions. Treatment decisions use your T-score together with your overall fracture risk, not the score alone.

Body composition DEXA. The same scanner can measure fat, lean muscle and bone across the whole body. It is useful for tracking changes with training or weight loss. It is not a medical test for osteoporosis, so let us know which you need.

Scans take place at accredited partner imaging centres in the North West. We confirm the location and give you directions when you book.

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Ready to get answers?

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