World Osteoporosis Day falls on 20 October, and it is a good reminder that bone health is not only a concern for later life. Bones can lose density quietly for years without any symptoms, and the first sign is sometimes a broken bone from a minor bump or fall. If you are over 50, or you have had a fracture that seemed too easy, you may be wondering whether you should ask your GP about a bone density scan.
This guide covers who should consider a scan, what the scan involves, what the results mean in plain language, and what can be done to keep your bones strong.
Why bones need attention after 50
Bone is living tissue that is constantly renewed. From around the age of 50, and especially for women around menopause, bone can be lost faster than it is replaced. Osteoporosis means the bones have become less dense and more fragile, so they break more easily. Because it usually causes no pain until a fracture happens, many people do not know their bones have weakened.
Doctors often talk about a minimal-trauma or low-trauma fracture, which means a bone that breaks from a minor bump or a fall from standing height or less. A fracture like this after the age of 50 can be an early clue that bone strength has dropped, and it is a good reason to raise the question of bone density with your GP rather than putting it down to bad luck.
Who should ask their GP about a bone density scan
Healthy Bones Australia suggests that women and men over 50 who have risk factors should talk to their doctor about a bone density scan. Common risk factors include:
- increasing age
- menopause, particularly early menopause
- a previous fracture from a minor bump or fall
- a family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture
- long-term use of corticosteroid medicines
- low vitamin D or low calcium
- smoking and drinking too much alcohol
- low body weight
- some medical conditions, such as coeliac disease, an overactive thyroid or rheumatoid arthritis
Your GP can look at your overall picture and decide whether a scan is worthwhile. A health assessment is often a good place to start this conversation.
What a bone density (DEXA) scan involves
A bone density scan uses a technology called DEXA (sometimes written DXA). According to Healthy Bones Australia, it is a quick and painless scan that takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You stay fully clothed and lie on a padded table while the scanner passes over you, usually measuring the hip and spine. It uses a very low level of radiation, much less than a standard X-ray, which is one reason a referral from your doctor is needed.
What your T-score means
The scan gives a result called a T-score, which compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. In plain terms:
- Above -1: normal bone density
- Between -1 and -2.5: osteopenia, meaning bone density is lower than normal and there is a risk of developing osteoporosis
- -2.5 or lower: osteoporosis, where fracture risk is higher and action is recommended
Your GP will explain what your particular result means for you, as the numbers are considered alongside your age and other risk factors.
What happens next
A result that shows lower bone density is not a dead end. Depending on your score and your risks, your GP may discuss:
- getting enough calcium in your diet and adequate vitamin D
- regular weight-bearing, strength and balance exercise
- stopping smoking and limiting alcohol
- medicines to strengthen bone when they are appropriate
- reducing the risk of falls at home
- repeat scans over time to monitor your bone density
Does Medicare cover a bone density scan?
A Medicare rebate for a DEXA scan depends on your age and your risk factors. Healthy Bones Australia notes that rebates apply in situations such as diagnosed osteoporosis, a previous fracture from a minor incident, long-term corticosteroid use, early menopause, low testosterone in men, certain medical conditions, and being aged 70 or over. Your GP will tell you whether you qualify. People who do not meet the criteria can still choose to pay for a scan.
What this looks like at Trinity Healthcare Centre
Trinity Healthcare Centre is an AGPAL-accredited general practice at 157-161 George St, Liverpool. Principal GP Dr Bilagia Tadros and the GP team can assess your bone health risk, arrange a scan where appropriate, and help you act on the results.
- Standard GP consultations and health assessments are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.
- A 20-minute Medicare-supported menopause health check is available for women navigating this stage of life.
- We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm and Saturday 8am to 1pm.
See our women and men health services and our menopause health check.
See your GP sooner if…
Make an appointment if you:
- have broken a bone from a minor bump or fall
- have lost height or developed a stooped posture
- have new, unexplained back pain
- take long-term steroid medicine and have not discussed your bones
For general health advice at any hour, you can call healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should I have a bone density scan?
There is no single age for everyone. Healthy Bones Australia suggests people over 50 with risk factors discuss a scan with their doctor, and a Medicare rebate is available for everyone aged 70 and over. Your GP can advise what is right for you.
Is the scan safe?
A DEXA scan uses a very low level of radiation, much less than a standard X-ray. It is quick and painless, and you stay clothed throughout.
What is the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis?
Osteopenia means bone density is lower than normal and carries a risk of progressing. Osteoporosis means bone density is low enough that bones break more easily. Both can be managed with support from your GP.
Can I improve my bone health?
Yes. Adequate calcium and vitamin D, regular strength and balance exercise, not smoking, limiting alcohol and, when needed, medicines can all help. Your GP can tailor a plan to you.
Book a bone health review in Liverpool
If any of the risk factors above sound familiar, a conversation with your GP is a sensible next step. Book online through HealthEngine on our online booking page or call (02) 9822 7107.
