Screening Tests
Risk factors
Fracture Risk Calculators
DXA Scan
Osteoporosis does not cause symptoms until a fracture occurs. An evaluation for low bone density can be undertaken with the use of clinical risk factors and fracture risk calculators. A test known as a DXA scan is available to measure bone density.
DXA stands for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Two low-energy beams are passed across areas of the body, and the differences in energy absorption are used to calculate the density of the underlying tissue. The lower spine, hips and forearm are the usual measured sites. These bone density readings are then used to generate an overall fracture risk profile. Our bone density scanner uses minimal radiation (only 10% compared to X-rays and 1% compared to CT scans).
No preparation is required for the bone density scan. However it is best to wear loose clothing with no metallic objects around the waist or pockets. This will ensure that the measurements are as accurate as possible.
All DXA scans are bulk-billed at our Centre.