A DEXA scan is the gold-standard test for measuring bone density and diagnosing osteoporosis. At the London Osteoporosis Clinic, we arrange DEXA scans at trusted partner facilities across London — with full specialist interpretation of your results by Dr Taher Mahmud. No GP referral needed.
DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It uses two low-dose X-ray beams to measure the mineral density of your bones — most commonly at the hip and lumbar spine. The scan takes 10–20 minutes, involves no injections, no enclosed spaces, and the radiation dose is extremely low (equivalent to a few hours of natural background radiation).
Results are expressed as a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult at peak bone mass:
A T-score alone does not tell the complete clinical story. At LOC, we combine your T-score with your FRAX fracture risk score, medical history, medication history, and lifestyle factors to build a picture that is meaningful to you — not just a number on a page.
Clinical guidelines recommend a DEXA scan for anyone with significant risk factors for bone loss. You may need a scan if you:
If you are unsure whether you need a scan, a 30-minute initial consultation with Dr Mahmud will assess your individual risk profile and determine the right next step.
As a clinic dedicated entirely to bone health, we have built relationships with leading accredited imaging centres across London. Here is what the process looks like from first contact to treatment plan:
Dr Mahmud reviews your full medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Where clinically indicated, he arranges a DEXA scan directly — no GP referral required, and no delay.
We refer you to a trusted, accredited imaging centre in London. Appointments are typically available within one to two weeks. The scan itself is quick, painless, and takes approximately 10–20 minutes.
Dr Mahmud reviews your DEXA report in full clinical context. You receive a clear, detailed explanation of what your T-score and FRAX fracture risk score mean for you personally — not a generic letter.
Where bone loss is identified, a structured plan is put in place immediately: targeted supplementation, exercise prescription, dietary optimisation, and medication where appropriate. We do not adopt a “watch and wait” approach.
For patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis, repeat DEXA scans are scheduled at 1–2 year intervals to track treatment response and confirm bone density is improving over time.
A DEXA report from a radiographer tells you what the scanner measured. A consultation with a bone health specialist tells you what to do about it.
Many patients arrive at LOC having received a DEXA result from their GP with minimal explanation — sometimes just a letter saying the result was “normal” or “slightly low.” In many of these cases, full specialist review reveals a meaningfully elevated fracture risk that warrants active treatment.
Bone health is not a static condition. With the right intervention, bone density can be measurably improved. Research confirms that patients managed within specialist bone health services show significantly better treatment adherence and greater improvements in bone density compared to those managed through primary care alone.
At LOC, we have helped hundreds of patients across London reverse measurable bone loss. The DEXA scan is where that process begins.
“We regularly see patients who were told their DEXA results were ‘borderline’ or ‘fine for their age’ by their GP, only to discover on full specialist review that their 10-year fracture risk is high when all the clinical factors are considered together. A T-score is a number. What you actually need is someone who understands what that number means in the context of your life, your medications, your family history — and who will act on it.”
— Dr Taher Mahmud, Consultant Rheumatologist
Private DEXA scan costs in London vary depending on the facility and whether a clinical consultation is included. At LOC, your DEXA scan is arranged as part of your overall bone health assessment. The imaging cost at our partner facility is separate from your consultation fee. Please call us on +44 (0)20 7193 7867 to confirm current consultation fees.
Many private health insurance policies cover DEXA scans when arranged by a specialist. We recommend confirming coverage with your insurer before booking. Our team is happy to advise on what documentation your insurer may require.
Your journey to stronger bones begins with a comprehensive consultant review.
or call +44 (0)20 7193 7867 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
Reviewed by Dr Taher Mahmud, Consultant Rheumatologist & Bone Health Specialist
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