Unlocking the Advantages of a DXA Scan

Understanding your body composition is essential for optimising health, performance, and long-term wellbeing. A DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan provides a precise analysis of your body’s three primary components: fat, muscle, and bone.

Following your scan, you’ll receive an in-depth, multi-page report detailing percentages, absolute mass, and annotated images to give you a clear picture of your body’s current state.

Optimal Preparation for Accurate Results

To ensure the most reliable outcomes from your DXA scan:

• Hydration & fasting: Arrive well-hydrated, and avoid eating for at least three hours before your appointment.
• Clothing & metal: Minimise metal — remove watches, zippers, jewelry, and underwires. If you have implanted metal or a piece of jewelry that cannot be removed, that’s fine. Wear lightweight clothing; avoid heavy sweatshirts or jeans.
• Pregnancy & procedures: We cannot perform scans if you may be pregnant. While radiation exposure is minimal for adults, it is not recommended for developing fetuses. Also, avoid scheduling your scan within two weeks of any procedure involving contrast dye.

What to Expect During Your DXA Scan

When you arrive, our experienced technologist will welcome you and guide you through the process. After recording your height and weight, you’ll undergo a comfortable six-minute scan while lying on the scanning bed.

Interpreting Your Results

Once your scan is complete, you’ll meet with an exercise specialist who will review your results in detail. You’ll gain a clear understanding of your body composition and receive personalised recommendations tailored to your goals — whether that’s reducing body fat, increasing muscle mass, or improving bone density.

You’ll also receive a comprehensive report for your records. With follow-up scans, we can track your progress over time — ideally every 3–6 months for body composition and annually for bone density assessments.