When it comes to health and fitness, Body Mass Index (BMI) has long been the standard, but it’s far from perfect. BMI doesn’t differentiate between fat and muscle, meaning someone with a high muscle mass could be misclassified as overweight, while someone with a “normal” BMI might still carry unhealthy levels of body fat.
That’s where body composition analysis comes in. Iowa Ortho offers DXA, or DEXA, (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) body composition scans—a safe, accurate, and fast way to assess your body’s makeup and develop a better-informed plan for your health and wellness.
Why BMI Isn’t Enough
BMI measures weight in relation to height but doesn’t account for body fat, muscle mass, or bone density. This leads to inaccurate readings, especially for:
- Athletes and active individuals
- Aging adults with muscle loss
- People with average weight but high visceral fat
A better tool is needed to truly understand your health risks and fitness goals.
What Is Body Composition Analysis?
Body composition testing measures the percentages of fat, muscle, and bone in your body. Unlike scales or BMI calculators, it reveals exactly where your body stores fat and lean tissue, helping you focus your efforts where they count.
At Iowa Ortho, we use DXA technology—the gold standard in body composition analysis, trusted by hospitals, research labs, and sports programs nationwide.
How Iowa Ortho’s DXA Scan Works
The DXA body composition scan is:
- Fast – Takes about 3–5 minutes to complete
- Painless – Non-invasive with no downtime
- Safe – Uses low-dose X-ray technology
The scan provides detailed insights into:
- Total and regional body fat percentage
- Visceral (abdominal) fat vs. subcutaneous fat
- Lean mass in arms, legs, trunk, and core
- Bone mineral content
You’ll receive a personalized report that shows your results in easy-to-read visuals, including side-by-side body scans.
Why Body Composition Matters
Knowing your body composition can help you:
- Track progress during a fitness or weight-loss program
- Set performance goals with data-backed insights
- Monitor recovery from injury or illness
- Prevent disease by identifying risk factors for diabetes, heart disease, and more
- Avoid overtraining or under-fueling by understanding your muscle-to-fat ratio
Who Should Get a DXA Body Composition Scan?
This test is ideal for:
- Athletes and fitness enthusiasts
- Anyone starting a weight-loss or muscle-building journey
- Individuals with metabolic or bone health concerns
- Patients recovering from surgery or orthopedic injuries
- Adults interested in proactive health management
What to Expect During the Test
Your entire visit will take around 30 minutes. Here’s how to prepare:
- Remove jewelry, body piercings, and metal accessories
- Take off hair pins, clips, barrettes, etc.
- Store valuables and electronics in a secure locker
- You may be asked to remove eyeglasses and hearing aids
You’ll lie still on a cushioned table while the scanner slowly moves from the head to toes for about 3 minutes. Afterward, you’ll receive your results.
Pricing and Scheduling
- Cost: $45 (self-pay only; not billed to insurance)
- Location: Downtown Des Moines Iowa Ortho Clinic
- Scheduling: Call us at 515‑247‑9590 or book an appointment online.
Start Your Journey Toward Better Health
Whether you’re training for a competition, recovering from surgery, or simply want a clearer picture of your overall health, DXA body composition testing at Iowa Ortho can help guide your next step.