Frequently asked questions.

Is a DXA scan safe?

A DXA scan is considered very safe due to being the lowest dosage from of any type of x-ray procedure. The radiation exposure is the equivalent to 1/70th of the background radiation you receive in everyday life.

Who should get a Bone Mineral Density Test?

If you are over 50 and answer yes to any of these questions, you should talk to your doctor about your bone health:

Do you have a family history of osteoporosis?
Have you ever suffered a broken hip or recently broken a bone from a minor bump or fall?
Do you have Coeliac disease?
Do you suffer from Rheumatoid arthritis?
Have you been taking steroid drugs for longer than 3 months, for example, for the treatment of asthma?
For women: Have you reached an early menopause?
For men: Do you have low testosterone levels?
Do you have overactive thyroid or parathyroid conditions?
Are you receiving treatment for breast or prostate cancer?
Have you noticed you’ve lost 3cm or more in height?

Who should get a Body Composition Scan?

Any adults interested in or affected by:

Progression of diet or exercise programs.
Weight management.
Athletes.
Anorexia Nervosa.
Cystic Fibrosis.
Chronic renal failure.
Risk of Chronic Disease/s.

How often should I have a bone density scan?

Depending on your risk factors, bone density scans can be repeated anywhere between 1-5 years.

How often should I have a body composition scan?

How often depends on your individual goals.

Do I need a doctors referral?

You can self-refer for a bone density or body composition scan – simply contact us or book online here.

What do I need to wear for a DXA scan?

It is best to wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing free from metal, buckles and zips (avoid jeans if possible); although suitable clothing/cover-ups can be provided on the day if necessary. You will need to remove any metal before having a scan done (excluding surgical metal screws etc that cannot be removed, in which case you can still get a scan).