Short answer: Osteopenia and Osteoporosis both involve reduced bone density, but osteoporosis is the more advanced condition and carries a greater risk of fractures. Osteopenia means your bone density is lower than expected but has not reached the level of osteoporosis. A Bone Density DEXA Scan is the gold standard test used to assess bone density and help identify changes in bone health.
Long answer:
Bones are living tissue that are constantly being broken down and rebuilt throughout life.
As we age, or in certain medical conditions, bone can be lost faster than it is replaced. Over time, this may lead to reduced bone density.
Bone density is commonly measured using a Bone Density DEXA Scan.
What Is Osteopenia?
Osteopenia means your bone density is lower than the expected range for a healthy young adult, but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.
Many people with osteopenia have no symptoms and are unaware they have reduced bone density until they undergo a Bone Density DEXA Scan.
Although Osteopenia does not mean your bones are severely weakened, it may increase your risk of developing Osteoporosis over time if bone loss continues.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when bone density has reduced to a level where the bones become significantly weaker and more fragile.
People with osteoporosis have a higher risk of fractures, particularly involving the:
- Hip
- Spine
- Wrist
In many cases, Osteoporosis develops gradually without causing pain or noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs.
For this reason, Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease.”
What Causes Reduced Bone Density?
Several factors may contribute to lower bone density, including:
- Ageing
- Menopause
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Low body weight
- Limited weight-bearing or resistance exercise
- Low calcium or vitamin D intake
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
- Certain medical conditions that affect bone health
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean you will develop osteoporosis, but it may increase your likelihood of reduced bone density.
How Is Bone Density Measured?
A Bone Density DEXA Scan is considered the gold standard test for measuring bone mineral density.
The scan measures areas such as the hips and lumbar spine and provides T-scores and Z-scores, which help healthcare professionals assess your bone health.
A T-score compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult, while a Z-score compares your bone density with people of a similar age and sex. Your healthcare professional will interpret these results alongside your medical history, individual risk factors and overall health.
The assessment is:
- Quick
- Non-invasive
- Low radiation
- Comfortable
Can Osteopenia Progress to Osteoporosis?
Yes.
Without appropriate management, some people with Osteopenia may develop Osteoporosis over time.
The rate of progression varies from person to person and depends on factors such as age, lifestyle, medical history and underlying health conditions.
Early identification allows you and your healthcare professional to discuss strategies that may help support bone health and monitor changes over time.
Key Takeaways
- Osteopenia means lower-than-normal bone density but is less severe than osteoporosis.
- Osteoporosis is a greater loss of bone density and increases the risk of fractures.
- Neither condition usually causes symptoms in its early stages.
- A Bone Density DEXA Scan is the gold standard test for measuring bone density.
- Early assessment may help identify changes in bone health before fractures occur.
How WLC Medical Can Help
At WLC Medical in Belmont, Perth, we provide medical-grade Bone Density DEXA Scans using a state-of-the-art DEXA scanner (GE Lunar iDXA). WLC Medical is the first allied health clinic in Western Australia to offer DEXA imaging assessments without requiring a GP referral.
All Bone Density DEXA Scans are performed by our trained Physiotherapists or Accredited Practising Dietitians, who take the time to explain your results and what they may mean for your bone health.
You do not need a GP referral to book a Bone Density DEXA Scan at WLC Medical.
Following your scan, your images are carefully reviewed and a comprehensive clinical report, similar to those provided by medical imaging providers, is available within seven business days. With your permission, your results can also be forwarded to your GP or other treating healthcare professional.
Ready to Better Understand Your Bone Health?
A Bone Density DEXA Scan provides valuable information about your bone health and may help identify changes before symptoms occur.
If you would like to learn more about your bone health or determine whether a Bone Density DEXA Scan is right for you, our team at WLC Medical is here to help.
To book an appointment or speak with our friendly team, call (08) 6263 7778, or book online through our website.
Related Articles
Continue learning about bone health and DEXA scans:
- Do I Need a GP Referral for a DEXA Scan?
- Bone Density Scan vs Body Composition Scan: Which DEXA Scan Is Right for You?
- What Is Visceral Fat and Why Does It Matter?
- Why Body Weight Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
References
- Healthy Bones Australia. Osteoporosis and Bone Health.
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Guidelines for Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis and Management.
- International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). Official Positions.
- National Osteoporosis Foundation.
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
Last reviewed: October 2026
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace personalised medical advice. If you have questions about your bone health, osteopenia or osteoporosis, please speak with your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.
