FRAX Score Calculator
Use this tool to estimate your 10-year fracture risk based on common FRAX clinical factors.
Educational estimate only. This is not the official country-specific FRAX engine and should not replace clinical judgment.
What is a FRAX score?
The FRAX score is a widely used fracture-risk estimate designed to help clinicians and patients understand the chance of osteoporotic fractures over the next 10 years. It combines age, sex, body size, and specific clinical risk factors. In some settings, bone mineral density (BMD) is added to improve accuracy.
Most people hear about FRAX when discussing osteoporosis screening, DXA scan results, or treatment decisions. A higher FRAX result does not guarantee a fracture will occur, but it can indicate that preventive action is worth discussing.
How this frax score calculator works
This calculator uses common FRAX-style inputs to provide two outputs:
- Major osteoporotic fracture risk (spine, forearm, hip, or shoulder)
- Hip fracture risk specifically
It is optimized for usability and education. Since official FRAX values differ by country and population model, this tool should be treated as a practical guide rather than a diagnostic endpoint.
Input fields explained
Age, sex, height, and weight
These baseline variables are essential. Risk generally rises with age. Height and weight are used to estimate BMI, which affects bone and fracture risk patterns.
Clinical risk factors
- Previous fracture: Indicates increased future fracture susceptibility.
- Parent hip fracture: Family history can significantly raise risk.
- Current smoking: Associated with lower bone quality over time.
- Glucocorticoids: Long-term steroid use can reduce bone strength.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation and treatment effects can contribute to bone loss.
- Secondary osteoporosis: Includes medical conditions that weaken bone.
- Alcohol 3+ units/day: Heavy intake is linked to greater fracture risk.
Femoral neck T-score (optional)
If you have a DXA result, adding T-score improves risk precision. More negative values typically suggest lower bone density and higher risk.
How to interpret your result
The output includes a risk category:
- Low: Usually supports ongoing lifestyle prevention and routine follow-up.
- Moderate: Suggests a targeted prevention plan and clinician review.
- High: Often warrants full osteoporosis evaluation and treatment discussion.
Many clinicians use thresholds like hip fracture risk ≥3% or major osteoporotic fracture risk ≥20% to trigger treatment discussions. Exact thresholds vary by guideline, age, and national recommendations.
Ways to improve bone health
- Perform regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise.
- Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
- Address fall risks: footwear, lighting, balance training, medication review.
- Discuss repeat DXA timing and medication options with your clinician.
Limitations and important disclaimer
This frax score calculator is for education and self-monitoring. It does not provide a medical diagnosis, and it does not replace country-specific FRAX tools or professional evaluation. If your risk appears moderate or high, or if you have had a fragility fracture, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick FAQ
Is this the official FRAX tool?
No. It is a practical, FRAX-style estimator designed for accessibility.
Can younger adults use it?
FRAX is generally intended for adults 40 and older, which is why this calculator uses that age range.
Should I worry if my score is high?
Use the score as a prompt for action, not panic. A clinician can help interpret the result and build a prevention or treatment plan.