Emerging Trends — 3D Optical Scanning and Ultrasound
2026 has seen the rise of 3D Optical Scanning as a rapid, radiation-free alternative for body composition estimation. These devices use infrared sensors or high-resolution cameras to create a 3D digital "avatar" of the patient, calculating body volume and surface area to estimate body fat percentage through advanced geometric algorithms.
Additionally, Ultrasound-based Analyzers have become a favorite for professional sports teams and elite athletes. Ultrasound allows for the direct measurement of subcutaneous fat thickness and muscle quality (echogenicity) at specific sites, such as the quadriceps or biceps. This "segmental analysis" is crucial in 2026 for identifying muscle imbalances and monitoring recovery from injury, providing a level of localized detail that whole-body BIA or DXA cannot offer.