BIA – body composition
Get estimates of fat, fat-free mass and other measures depending on the device. For tracking changes, use the same device where possible and keep testing conditions similar. InBody is one BIA brand.
Explore this testChoosing a test: body composition and bone density
Do you want to understand your body composition, or are you looking for a bone density test? Explore the differences and what to check before booking.
Which test are you looking for?
DXA – body composition
A whole-body DXA scan separates fat, lean soft tissue and bone mineral by body region. Ask specifically for body-composition analysis; a bone density test does not replace it.
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Bone density testing
This test assesses bone density, often with a DXA scan of the spine and hip, though other methods exist. Discuss the appropriate examination and its results with a clinician.
Explore this testHow the tests differ
DXA body-composition analysis and bone densitometry are different examinations. They may use the same method, but assess different regions and provide different results. Having a DXA scanner does not mean a location offers both services.
BIA – body composition
- What you learn
- Estimated body composition; available measures vary by device.
- What happens
- Contact with electrodes, standing or lying down depending on the device. No X-rays.
- Before your visit
- Follow instructions on meals, exercise and fluids. Discuss implants or pregnancy with the provider using the device guidance.
- What to book
- Body-composition testing on a specific BIA device, with an explanation if needed.
- Preparing for your test
- Meals, exercise, fluids and similar conditions for repeat testing.How to prepare
DXA – body composition
- What you learn
- Fat, lean soft tissue and bone mineral, including their distribution by body region.
- What happens
- Lying on an open table for a whole-body X-ray scan.
- Before your visit
- Ask for whole-body scan preparation instructions and report possible pregnancy beforehand.
- What to book
- Whole-body DXA body-composition analysis, rather than a bone density scan alone.
- Preparing for your test
- Whole-body scan preparation, clothing and information for the provider.How to prepare
Bone density testing
- What you learn
- Bone density in the examined region; a clinician interprets the findings.
- What happens
- For typical central DXA, lying down for a spine and/or hip scan. Other methods use different procedures.
- Before your visit
- Confirm the method, any referral and preparation. Report possible pregnancy before an X-ray examination.
- What to book
- The bone density examination recommended by your clinician; confirm the region to be scanned.
- Preparing for your test
- Scan region, calcium supplements and previous imaging for DXA.How to prepare
How to choose a location
Confirm the exact examination
A brand or device name is not enough. Ask what the service includes, which results you will receive and whether a referral is needed. For tracking body composition, check that you can return to the same device.
Compare the full price
Does the price cover just the test, or also an explanation and consultation? Check extra charges. If using MultiSport, confirm coverage for this examination; acceptance by a gym does not establish testing conditions.
Check availability and access
Are non-members welcome? Do you need an appointment, and is the equipment accessible if you have limited mobility? Confirm price and availability directly before visiting.
Arrange preparation and explanation
Ask for instructions for your examination and find out who will explain the results. Discuss medical concerns, examination suitability and bone density findings with a clinician.
Find a testing location in Slovakia
Find a nearby location and compare services and prices. The map has two groups: BIA, and DXA together with bone density testing. Check that your chosen provider offers your particular examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is InBody a different method from BIA?
InBody is a brand of devices using BIA, which measures electrical impedance. Other manufacturers use the same basic principle. Available results and procedures can differ by model.
Is DXA body composition the same as bone densitometry?
They are different examinations. Body-composition analysis requires a whole-body scan and the appropriate analysis; bone DXA usually assesses the spine and hip. A location may offer one service or both. DXA and DEXA name the same X-ray method.
Can I compare BIA and DXA results?
Track changes with the same method, preferably the same device and similar conditions. Methods use different definitions and calculations, so differences between results may not reflect changes in your body. Neither fat-free mass nor lean soft tissue is the same as pure muscle mass.