Short answer: Although both assessments use the same DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) technology, they measure different aspects of your health. A Bone Density DEXA Scan assesses the strength and density of your bones to help identify low bone density, osteopenia and osteoporosis. A Total Body Composition DEXA Scan measures body fat, lean muscle mass, visceral fat and overall body composition. Choosing the right scan depends on what you want to learn about your health.
Long answer:
DEXA scanning is considered one of the most accurate and reliable methods available for assessing both bone health and body composition. While the technology is the same, the software analyses different information depending on the type of assessment being performed.
Bone Density DEXA Scan
A Bone Density DEXA Scan focuses specifically on your bones.
It measures the mineral density of key areas such as the hips and lumbar spine to determine how strong your bones are and whether there is evidence of bone loss.
A Bone Density Scan may be suitable if you:
- Are over 50 years of age
- Have a family history of osteoporosis
- Have experienced a fracture from a minor fall
- Are post-menopausal
- Have certain medical conditions or take medications that may affect bone health
- Want to establish a baseline measurement for future comparison
Your report includes clinically recognised T-scores and Z-scores, which help determine whether your bone density is within the expected range for your age or whether further medical review may be appropriate.
Total Body Composition DEXA Scan
A Total Body Composition DEXA Scan looks beyond your weight to provide a detailed analysis of your body’s composition.
Rather than simply telling you how much you weigh, it measures:
- Total body fat percentage
- Lean muscle mass
- Visceral fat surrounding your internal organs
- Bone mineral content
- Fat distribution throughout the body
- Left and right-side muscle balance
This information provides a much clearer picture of your overall health than body weight or Body Mass Index (BMI) alone.
A Body Composition DEXA Scan may be suitable if you:
- Are beginning a weight management program
- Are using GLP-1 medications and want to monitor changes in muscle and fat
- Want to improve your health and fitness
- Are focused on healthy ageing
- Are monitoring changes following illness, injury or surgery
- Want an accurate baseline of your body composition
Which DEXA Scan Is Right for You?
The right assessment depends on your health goals.
A Bone Density DEXA Scan is designed to assess the strength of your bones and may be appropriate if you’re concerned about osteoporosis, have risk factors for low bone density or want to monitor your bone health over time.
A Total Body Composition DEXA Scan provides a detailed picture of your muscle mass, body fat and visceral fat, making it a valuable assessment for people interested in weight management, fitness, healthy ageing or tracking changes in body composition.
If you’re interested in understanding both your bone health and your body composition, you can choose to have both assessments during a single appointment, providing a comprehensive overview of your health.
Ready to Better Understand Your Health?
Whether you’re looking to assess your bone health, better understand your body composition, or determine which DEXA assessment is right for you, our team at WLC Medical is here to help.
We offer medical-grade Bone Density DEXA Scans, Total Body Composition DEXA Scans, and combined assessments, with no GP referral required. If you’re unsure which scan is most appropriate, we’re happy to discuss your goals and help you choose the assessment that’s right for you.
To book an appointment or speak with our friendly team, call (08) 6263 7778, or book online through our website.
References
- International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). Official Positions.
- Healthy Bones Australia. Bone Health Resources.
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Guidelines for Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis and Management.
- Nana A, et al. DXA: Theory and Practice in Body Composition Assessment. Journal of Sports Sciences.
- National Institutes of Health. Body Composition and Health.
Last reviewed: August 2026
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns about your bone health or overall health, please speak with your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.
