Bone density scans (BMD) and DEXA body composition scans are advanced imaging tests that measure bone strength, fat distribution and muscle mass. At Qscan Radiology Clinics, these scans help assess osteoporosis risk, metabolic health and overall body composition.
These advanced imaging tests provide information beyond weight or BMI, helping support diagnosis, treatment planning and long-term health monitoring.
What is a BMD scan?
A BMD scan, also known as a bone density scan, is a quick and simple imaging test that measures how strong your bones are.
Using very low-dose x-rays, the scan measures the amount of calcium and minerals in your bones. This helps doctors assess your risk of fractures and diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis or osteopenia.
Your doctor may recommend a BMD scan if you:
• Have experienced a fracture from a minor fall or injury
• Have a medical condition that may weaken bones
• Take medications that affect bone strength
• Have experienced hormonal changes
• Have lost height or have concerns about spinal fractures
BMD scans are commonly used to:
• Diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia
• Assess fracture risk
• Monitor response to osteoporosis treatment
Because bone loss often occurs gradually and without symptoms, bone density scans play an important role in detecting problems early.
What is a DEXA Body Composition scan?
A DEXA scan provides a detailed breakdown of what your body is made of, measuring:
• Body fat percentage
• Lean muscle mass
• Bone mass
This type of scan is widely used in healthcare, fitness and sports medicine to help track changes in body composition over time.
DEXA scans can support:
• Monitoring weight-loss or metabolic therapy progress
• Assessing fat distribution and cardiometabolic risk
• Supporting sports performance and recovery
• Tracking muscle preservation during lifestyle or medical interventions
Unlike traditional measurements like BMI or weight alone, DEXA scans provide a detailed picture of how fat and muscle are distributed throughout the body.
Do I Need a Referral?
Referral requirements differ depending on the type of scan.
BMD scans require a referral from your doctor or referring practitioner, as they are used to diagnose or monitor medical conditions such as osteoporosis.
DEXA scans, however, can be booked directly and do not require a referral. Many people choose to have these scans to track changes in body composition, support fitness goals or monitor metabolic health.
If you are unsure which scan may be appropriate, speaking with your doctor can help guide the right choice.
Why BMD and DEXA Scans Matter
Both scans provide valuable insights into health.
BMD scans focus on bone strength, helping detect osteoporosis early and reduce the risk of fractures.
DEXA body composition scans focus on muscle and fat distribution, helping track physical changes during lifestyle adjustments, weight management programs or medical treatments.
Together, these scans offer a more complete understanding of health than weight or BMI alone.
What Happens During the Scan?
Both BMD and DEXA scans are quick, safe and non-invasive.
During the scan:
• You will lie comfortably on a scanning table.
• A scanner arm moves slowly over your body to capture images.
• The scan most commonly measures the lower spine and hips, as these areas are most at risk of fractures.
The scanning time itself usually takes 5–10 minutes, and the total appointment lasts around 15–20 minutes.
DEXA body composition scans can also deliver results quickly, often within minutes.
How Safe Are BMD and DEXA Scans?
Both scans use very low levels of radiation.
In fact, the radiation dose from a bone density scan is around one-tenth of the dose of a standard chest X-ray, making it a safe and widely used diagnostic test when clinically appropriate.
Preparing for a BMD or DEXA Scan
Preparation is minimal.
Before your appointment, you may be asked to:
• Stop taking calcium supplements 24 hours prior
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal buttons or zips
• Remove jewellery, belts or other metal objects before the scan
You should also inform the clinic if you:
• Are pregnant
• Have recently had a CT scan with contrast, a barium study or a nuclear medicine scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a BMD scan and a DEXA scan?
A BMD scan measures bone strength, while a DEXA body composition scan measures body fat, muscle mass and bone mass.
How long does a BMD or DEXA scan take?
The scan itself usually takes 5–10 minutes, with the full appointment lasting 15–20 minutes.
Is the scan painful?
No. Both scans are painless and non-invasive. You simply lie still while the scanner captures images.
Do I need a referral for a BMD or DEXA scan?
A referral is required for a BMD scan, while DEXA body composition scans can be booked without a referral.
Who should consider a bone density scan?
Your doctor may recommend a BMD scan if you have risk factors for osteoporosis, fractures, hormonal changes or medical conditions affecting bone health.
DEXA Scan vs Bone Density Scan
| Feature | BMD Scan | DEXA Body Composition |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | Bone mineral density | Fat, muscle and bone |
| Used for | Osteoporosis diagnosis | Body composition analysis |
| Referral | Required | Not required |
| Scan time | 5–10 minutes | 5–10 minutes |
Book a BMD or DEXA Scan at Qscan
If you would like to better understand your bone health or body composition, a BMD or DEXA scan may provide valuable insights.
Speak with your referring practitioner about a BMD scan, or contact Qscan to learn more about booking a DEXA body composition scan.
Find a clinic near you
Book now
Learn more about bone health:
Healthy Bones Australia
International Osteoporosis Foundation
Referrer Support
Email: [email protected] or click here