Digital X-Rays
Digital X-Rays
One of the most important elements of chiropractic care is accurate diagnostics. Digital X-rays are primarily used to identify the specific areas of the spine that require chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractors rely on a variety of diagnostic techniques to fully understand what is occurring within a patient’s musculoskeletal system and how a particular treatment intervention could lead to positive outcomes.
Because chiropractic care involves spinal adjustments and other techniques that manipulate skeletal structures—either by hand or with specialized instruments—X-rays help the chiropractor clearly see what is happening inside the body in terms of alignment and structural integrity.
It is important to highlight that X-rays are not used universally in chiropractic care. In most patients, the chiropractor is able to determine what is occurring in the musculoskeletal system without the need for imaging technology. X-rays are usually reserved for the more severe cases in which there may be a serious condition present such as scoliosis, osteoporosis, or spinal stenosis.
As a general guideline, X-rays are recommended in the following cases:
- If the patient has sustained a significant traumatic injury, as a bone may be broken or a joint may be dislocated
- If an infection may be causing the patient’s pain
- If any significant disease is suspected, such as cancer or a possible tumor
- If any type of joint disease is suspected, such as arthritis causing joint pain
- If the patient is over age 50 and has experienced any type of trauma (even a minor one)
- For most patients over 65 years of age
- Anyone who has been diagnosed with or who may be at risk for osteoporosis.
- The X-ray may be important to identify or rule out a possible vertebral fracture from osteoporosis.
- Any suspected spinal instability
- If the patient has had long-standing pain that has not responded to or resolved with previous health care treatment
During your appointment, we will determine whether or not x-rays are necessary. To request an appointment today, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (517) 879-2055!