Why I’m Glad I Got a DEXA Scan Before My 60s
Why checking in on your bones and muscles before menopause matters more than you think | Taking action now so I’m not playing catch-up later
Recently, I had my very first DEXA scan. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a simple, non-invasive way to measure your bone density, muscle mass, and body fat distribution. I decided to do it because I’m in what I call my rebuild phase after a few years of not feeling great. I’m working on improving my health, strength, and vitality as I edge through perimenopause.
I’ve been curious about getting a clearer picture of what’s actually going on in my body since first hearing orthopedic surgeon specialising in sports medicine and active aging, Dr Vonda Wright, speak at the So Hot Right Now events in Sydney in March. She suggests getting a DEXA in your 40s rather than the recommended 65, as a way to prevent and prepare for bone density loss, which can occur with estrogen loss, which occurs during menopause.
We can guess all we like, but I wanted hard facts. What am I working with? Where am I strong? Where could I improve? The DEXA scan gave me those answers.
I’m still processing all the data (there’s a lot of it!), but here’s what I’ve taken away so far:
My bone density is above average for my age. I cannot tell you how relieved I was to see that. After hearing so many stories of women discovering osteoporosis or osteopenia too late, I feel grateful I’ve got a solid foundation to work with. I wonder if six years of consistent strength training have given me, despite my taking a several-year break.
My muscle density is good, though my lower body is miles ahead of my upper body. That wasn’t a shock; I’ve always favoured lower-body strength work. But this scan has really motivated me to balance that out. I’ve now set a goal I’ve never reached before: to do at least one unassisted pull-up, plus I’ve altered my training to be more balanced.
My body fat levels indicate that my ratio isn’t quite where I want it to be for the best health markers, but now I’ve clarity, I can tailor my training and nutrition to my body, rather than just following a generic plan. And this was a plan I had mapped out with my exercise physiologist after the scan.
The big lesson for me? This is exactly the time to check in with our bones and muscles. Not when we hit 65 and are handed a pamphlet about bone loss, because by then, rebuilding is harder and takes longer if possible.
Getting a DEXA scan now gives us the chance to act while we can still make a meaningful difference. We can protect the bones we have, build muscle, and lower health risks like fractures and falls later on.
It’s also a powerful motivator. Seeing my results on paper has given me real focus. I’m no longer just working out to “feel better”; I’ve got specific, measurable goals I can work towards. And that feels good.
If you’re curious and local to the Sunshine Coast, check out Exercise Matters in Noosaville. They were fantastic, and if you go, tell them I sent you.
Here’s my rundown on the DEXA scan experience…
Katie (from MAFS) went into more detail about her recent DEXA experience.
I’d love to hear — have you had a DEXA scan, or is it something you’ve considered? What health checks have helped you feel more in control during this phase of life? Hit reply and let me know.
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