What is DEXA?
Why it’s Done
Scan Process
Report & Results
Tests & Pricing
FAQs
Book Now
What is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a quick, painless, and considered as the gold standard test to measure:
- Bone Mineral Density (BMD) – Detect osteoporosis early to reduce fracture risk
- Fracture Risk – assess bone strength and fall risk
- Body Composition – ratio of muscle, fat, and bone
- Fat Distribution – visceral (around organs) vs subcutaneous (under skin) fat for metabolic health
Radiation exposure is minimal (lower than a chest X-ray), making it one of the safest diagnostic imaging options.
Why You May Need a DEXA Scan
A DEXA scan is useful not just for you, but also for your friends, family, or colleagues who may be at risk. It can help when someone:
Is above 40 years (especially post-menopausal women)
Has a family history of osteoporosis or fractures
Is on long-term steroid or thyroid therapy
Experiences unexplained fractures or bone pain
Is an athlete tracking changes in muscle & fat
Wants to monitor treatment progress or the impact of lifestyle changes
Needs a baseline bone health record for future comparison
Note: DEXA Scan is not recommended for pregnant women — inform our staff if you may be pregnant.
How the Scan is Done
Note: DEXA Scan is not recommended for pregnant women — please inform our staff if you may be pregnant.
Before the Scan
- No injections, no fasting needed.
- Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours.
- Remove jewellery, belts, and other metal accessories and wear loose, comfortable clothing provided by scan team
During the Scan
- You’ll lie comfortably on a flat table.
- You’ll be asked to breathe normally and remain still for accuracy
- The scanner arm moves slowly over your body.
- Entire process takes 15–20 minutes. A detailed report is available within 30 minutes after the scan.
After the Scan
- You can resume normal activities immediately.
Your DEXA Scan Report Will Include
Understanding Your DEXA Scan Results
T-score
compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult (20–40 years) of the same gender and ethnicity, to diagnose osteopenia (Low Bone Mass) or osteoporosis (disease that weakens bones).
Normal: ≥ -1
Osteoporosis: ≤ -2.5
Doctors use the T-score to diagnose osteoporosis.
Z-score
compares your bone density with people of the same age, sex, and ethnicity (useful for atypical loss patterns)
As people get older, some loss of bone density is natural. This usually shows up as a lower T-score. It is then when, the Z-score helps doctors understand why bone density is low in older adults. A Z-score ≤ -2.0 may indicate bone loss due to other causes (medical condition, medication side effect, etc.) which could raise the risk of fractures.
Always review your scan results with a qualified doctor to understand what they mean for your health.
This infographic is for educational purposes only. Please consult a qualified doctor for personalised medical advice
Body Composition
- Body fat %
- BMI
- Lean Mass Index (overall lean mass relative to height)
- Android/gynoid fat distribution
- Visceral vs subcutaneous fat (VAT/SAT)
- Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
- Appendicular Lean Mass (ALM) – for sarcopenia evaluation
Advanced Scores
- FRAX Score (fracture risk calculator)
- Paediatric Bone Health (if applicable)
DEXA Scan Tests & Pricing – Whitefield & Domlur
Explore our comprehensive list of DEXA scan services available at RxDx Clinics – Whitefield and RxDx Clinics – NM Medical, Domlur, Bengaluru.
Use the table below to learn about each test, including what it measures, when it is recommended, and transparent pricing. You can search or filter by category (bone density, metabolic health, paediatric) or specific keywords like hip, spine, or whole body to quickly find the assessment that suits your needs. All scans are performed with advanced DEXA technology by experienced radiology professionals.
DEXA Scan Services & Prices
| No | Category | Test | Explanation to the Test | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Hip (Single) | The hip is one of the most common sites for osteoporosis-related fractures. A single hip scan measures bone density in one hip. | 1,500 |
| 2 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Hip (Dual / Comparison) | The hip is one of the most common sites for osteoporosis-related fractures. A dual hip scan checks both hips for accuracy. Hip comparison is useful when one hip is affected by arthritis, surgery, or implants. | 2,500 |
| 3 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Spine (Standard L1–L4) | The lumbar spine (L1–L4) is highly sensitive to early bone loss. Measuring bone mineral density here is considered the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and monitoring treatment response. | 1,500 |
| 4 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Scoliotic Spine | In patients with scoliosis (curved spine), standard bone density results may be misleading. This mode adjusts for spinal curvature, giving a more reliable and accurate assessment. | 1,750 |
| 5 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Lateral Spine BMD | Unlike the standard front-to-back view, this test measures bone density from the side view of the spine. It helps detect vertebral thinning earlier and is valuable in identifying silent fractures. | 2,000 |
| 6 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Forearm | Measures bone density in the radius and ulna (forearm bones). Especially useful when hips or spine cannot be scanned (e.g., hip replacement, arthritis). Also valuable in metabolic conditions such as hyperparathyroidism. | 1,000 |
| 7 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Hip + Spine Combination | Since bone loss may not occur uniformly, scanning both hip and spine provides a more complete and reliable picture. This dual-site assessment reduces the risk of misdiagnosis. | 2,500 |
| 8 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Digital Vertebral Assessment (DVA) | Captures images of the vertebrae to identify silent (asymptomatic) vertebral fractures, which are often missed in routine X-rays. | 2,000 |
| 9 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Orthopaedic Applications | Supports bone health evaluation in patients with fractures, joint replacements, or implants. Useful for surgical planning, monitoring healing, and deciding safe treatment approaches. | 2,500 |
| 10 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Morphometry | Provides detailed measurement of vertebral shapes, sizes, angles, and distances. Essential in diagnosing compression fractures, scoliosis, and spinal deformities. | 2,500 |
| 11 | Bone Density & Fracture Risk Assessment | DEXA Cobb Angle (with AP-DVA) | The Cobb angle is the standard tool for measuring spinal curvature in scoliosis. Using AP-DVA (front view of vertebrae), this ensures accurate diagnosis, progression tracking, and monitoring. | 2,500 |
| 12 | Body Composition & Metabolic Health | DEXA Whole Body Scan & Composition | Provides overall skeletal density plus a comprehensive analysis of body fat, lean mass, and muscle distribution. Also indicates fat stored around key regions. Widely used in obesity management, metabolic health, sports fitness, and performance tracking. | 4,000 |
| 13 | Body Composition & Metabolic Health | DEXA Visceral Fat Analysis | Estimates fat stored around internal organs (different from subcutaneous fat). High visceral fat is strongly associated with diabetes, fatty liver, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular risk. | 3,000 |
| 14 | Body Composition & Metabolic Health | DEXA Metabolic Indicators (BMI, FMI, BMR, RMR, Lean Mass Balance, Android/Gynoid Ratio) | Calculates key metabolic health indices. Helps in risk stratification, diet and fitness planning, and tailoring personalised interventions. | 1,000 |
| 15 | Specialised & Paediatric Assessments | DEXA Paediatric Bone Health | Evaluates bone strength, growth progress, and body composition in children and adolescents. Especially valuable for those with nutritional deficiencies, growth disorders, or chronic illnesses. | 2,000 |
| 16 | Specialised & Paediatric Assessments | DEXA FRAX Score (WHO Tool) | Estimates the 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures by combining bone mineral density with other clinical risk factors (age, gender, lifestyle, family history). | 1,250 |
| 17 | Specialised & Paediatric Assessments | DEXA Hip Structural Analysis (HAS) | Provides detailed hip geometry (HAL, FNAL, FNA, IH) to assess fracture risk beyond bone density, giving a deeper insight into hip stability. | 2,000 |
Why Choose RxDx for Your DEXA?
- Advanced, state-of-the-art DEXA scanners
- Certified & trained staff ensuring precision and safety
- Quick reports with reliable results
- Senior orthopaedic specialists to interpret results and guide treatment
- Comprehensive health ecosystem with multi-specialty support:
- Orthopaedics & Rheumatology → bone and joint care
- Endocrinology → hormonal & metabolic conditions
- Paediatrics → bone health, growth, nutrition in children
- Gynaecology → post-menopausal & women’s bone health
- Geriatrics → elderly care, frailty & fall prevention
- Physiotherapy & Dietetics → lifestyle & rehabilitation
- Other experts (Oncology, Pulmonology, Neurology) → when chronic illness or treatment impacts bone health
- Walk-in or easy appointment booking
- Multiple convenient locations
- Hygienic, patient-friendly environment
Safety & Precautions
- Radiation exposure is extremely low
- Not recommended for pregnant women (inform staff if pregnant or suspect pregnancy)
- Always consult your doctor for correct interpretation of results. OPD Consultation is not included in the test cost.
Related services
Orthopaedics
Bone and joint consultations
Preventive Health Checks
Comprehensive screenings by age and risk profile
Radiology & Imaging
Advanced diagnostic imaging across modalities
Booking & locations
RxDx Clinics, Whitefield
7G, Council Khata 180/63,
Kundalahalli Main Road,
Vishweshwaraiah Industrial Area,
Whitefield,
Bengaluru – 560048
Timings: Daily, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
RxDx–NM Medical, Domlur
Ground Floor, Tower A,
Corporate Block, Diamond District,
HAL Airport Road, ISRO Colony, Domlur,
Bengaluru – 560008
Timings: Daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (Sunday closed)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a DEXA scan and what does the FDX Visionary-DR machine do?
They help:
- Diagnose osteoporosis and evaluate fracture risk
- Measure bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD)
- Monitor bone health over time
- Analyse full body composition (BMI, fat mass, lean mass, visceral fat)
The scan is painless, non-invasive, and typically takes 10–20 minutes, providing accurate insights into bone and metabolic health.
How does a DEXA scan work and why is it preferred for bone density tests?
Why it’s preferred:
- Extremely low radiation dose (much lower than traditional X-rays)
- Highly accurate and consistent results
- Considered the gold standard for osteoporosis screening worldwide
Is a DEXA scan safe? Are there any risks?
DEXA scans are safe and painless for most people. Radiation exposure is minimal.
Note: DEXA Scan is not recommended for pregnant women — inform our staff if you may be pregnant.
Who should consider getting a DEXA scan?
- Post-menopausal women and older adults
- Individuals with a family history of osteoporosis
- People with frequent fractures or bone weakness
- Patients on long-term steroid therapy
- Those with chronic illnesses affecting bone health
- Athletes prone to stress fractures
What are the benefits and limitations of a DEXA scan?
- Early detection of bone loss and fracture risk
- Quick, painless, and non-invasive procedure
- Minimal radiation exposure (much lower than a standard X-ray)
- No fasting or complex preparation required
Limitations:
- Does not directly assess bone quality or the cause of bone loss
- Unsuitable for pregnant women due to radiation
- Results may be affected by recent contrast imaging tests or metal implants
Which body areas are scanned during a DEXA test?
- Lumbar spine (lower back)
- Hip / Femur (proximal femoral bone)
- Forearm / Wrist
- Whole body (for body composition analysis)
These areas are important as they are most prone to osteoporotic fractures (spine, hip, wrist).
What are T-scores and Z-scores in DEXA results?
DEXA results use two key indicators:
- T-Score: Compares your bone density to a healthy young adult of the same gender and ethnicity.
- Above –1: Normal
- Between –1 and –2.5: Osteopenia (low bone mass)
- Below –2.5: Osteoporosis
- Z-Score: Compares your bone density to healthy people of the same age, sex, and ethnicity.
- A Z-score close to 0 → bone density is typical for your age group.
- A Z-score ≤ -2.0 → may suggest bone loss due to causes other than normal aging (e.g., medical conditions, medications).
What additional information does the DEXA scan provide about body composition?
- Body Mass Index (BMI) and Lean Mass Index (LMI)
- Fat Mass & Fat Distribution (Android/Gynoid fat ratios)
- Visceral vs Subcutaneous Fat (VAT & SAT)
- Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) – calories burned at rest
- Appendicular Lean Mass (ALM) – useful in diagnosing sarcopenia
These insights help assess obesity, muscle health, and metabolic risks.
Do I need a prescription for a DEXA scan?
While a doctor’s referral is recommended, you can contact RxDx Clinics directly to discuss your needs and book an appointment.
How do I prepare for a DEXA scan?
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers or buttons
- Avoid calcium supplements 24 hours before the test (unless advised otherwise)
- Remove jewellery, belts, or metal accessories before the scan
- Inform your doctor/technologist if pregnant, have implants, or recently had a contrast X-ray or nuclear medicine scan (within the last week)
What should I expect during and after the scan?
- You will lie still on a cushioned table while a scanning arm passes over your body
- The scan is painless, requires no injections or dyes, and typically takes 10–20 minutes
- You will be asked to breathe normally and remain still for accuracy
- You can resume normal activities immediately after the test
- A detailed report is available within 30 minutes after the scan.
How much does a DEXA scan cost at RxDx Clinics, Whitefield?
- Call: 901 409 1111
- WhatsApp: 901 996 1402
- Email: info@rxdx.in
- Book online: DEXA @ RxDx.
How do I book a DEXA scan in Bengaluru?
You can book a DEXA scan at RxDx Clinics, Whitefield or RxDx NM Medical, Domlur branch by:
- Calling: 901 409 1111
- WhatsApp Chat: 901 996 1402
- Email: info@rxdx.in
- Booking online: DEXA @ RxDx.
- Or simply walk-in to:
|
RxDx Clinics, Whitefield 7G, Council Khata 180 / 63, Daily: 8 am to 10 pm |
RxDx-NM Medical Ground Floor, Tower A Daily: 8 am to 8 pm (Sunday CLOSED) |
|---|
Is it painful?
No, it’s completely painless and non-invasive.
When will I get my results?
A detailed report is available within 30 minutes after the scan.
How often should I repeat the test?
Usually once every 1–2 years, or as advised by your doctor.
