Bone Profile
A bone profile assesses minerals and enzymes involved in bone health, calcium balance and certain metabolic conditions. It is used in routine blood tests, general health checks and when investigating symptoms related to fatigue, bone discomfort, kidney function or hormonal changes. The test helps identify imbalances that may affect bones, muscles or overall metabolic stability.
What a Bone Profile Measures
A standard bone profile typically includes:
- Total Calcium
- Corrected calcium (adjusted for albumin levels)
- Phosphate
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- Albumin
- Sometimes magnesium (depending on the laboratory)
These markers help assess bone turnover, calcium balance and mineral regulation.
Why Bone Profiles Are Used
A bone profile helps identify:
- Calcium imbalance
- Vitamin D or parathyroid-related changes
- Bone turnover issues
- Certain metabolic conditions
- Mineral imbalances linked to kidney function
- Causes of fatigue, muscle aches or bone pain
It is also commonly checked during monitoring for conditions that affect calcium regulation or bone health.
Common Reasons to Have a Bone Profile
This test may be arranged if you have:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Muscle cramps or aches
- Bone discomfort
- Symptoms of calcium imbalance (such as tingling or twitching)
- Unexpected ALP changes on previous blood tests
- Kidney function concerns
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Hormonal health concerns involving calcium regulation
Bone profiles are also included in many general health assessments.
Understanding Bone Profile Patterns
Raised calcium
May be linked to dehydration, certain hormonal conditions or medication effects. Further assessment and investigation is usually needed.
Low calcium
Often associated with vitamin D deficiency, dietary issues or changes in parathyroid hormone regulation.
Raised ALP
Common in bone growth, healing, vitamin D deficiency or liver conditions. Interpretation depends on accompanying tests.
Low phosphate or high phosphate
Often related to kidney function, dietary intake or vitamin D status.
Temporary fluctuations
Illness, recent supplements, hydration and laboratory variation can influence results.
How the Test Is Performed
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm. No fasting is required, and results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.
When to Discuss Bone Profile Results with a GP
Speak to a GP if:
- Any calcium or phosphate level falls outside the reference range
- ALP is raised and the cause is unclear
- You have symptoms such as muscle cramps, tingling or bone discomfort
- You have vitamin D deficiency or kidney concerns
- You want to review your results in context with wider metabolic tests
A GP can help interpret the results and advise on next steps.
Related Tests
Bone profiles are often reviewed alongside:
- Full blood count
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function tests
- Thyroid function tests
- Vitamin D
- HbA1c
- Blood pressure review
For a wider overview of routine blood markers, you can visit our main Blood Tests section in the Knowledge Base.
If you would like to discuss your bone profile results or any symptoms related to calcium or bone health, you can book an online GP appointment for clear and personalised advice.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 8 December 2025