What is a Digital X-Ray?
An x-ray is a diagnostic test that uses electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. This type of x-ray is called a digital x-ray. A digital x-ray uses a computer to create the x-ray image, which can be stored on a computer.
A digital x-ray is different from a traditional x-ray because it:
- Is more clear and detailed
- Uses less radiation
- Can be stored on a computer
- Provides images quickly
Why Get a Spine X-Ray?
A spinal x-ray can give our chiropractor in Walpole important information about your spine. The imaging can help diagnose problems with your bones, joints, and discs. A spinal x-ray can also help find problems with the ligaments, muscles, and other soft tissues in your back that are tougher to diagnose without the images.
It is not always necessary to have an x-ray. In some cases, your symptoms, a physical exam, and your medical history will be enough for our chiropractor in Walpole to come to a diagnosis. In other cases, we may recommend an x-ray or other imaging tests to get more information about your condition before beginning treatment.
We would only recommend an x-ray if we felt it was medically necessary to help with diagnosis and guide us with treatment options. X-rays do expose you to radiation, so it’s best to only use this course of action if it’s deemed necessary.
What to Expect When Getting a Spinal X-Ray
If it’s decided that a spinal x-ray would be beneficial, one of our team members will take you to the x-ray room in our office. You will be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that might effect the imaging. You’ll be positioned with the x-ray machine and our team member will step out of the room to snap the image. We may take multiple images from different angles to make sure we have the best outcome. You may be asked to hold your breath at certain points during the x-ray to prevent movement that could blur the image.
Usually taking x-rays only take a few minutes. Once we are done grabbing the images, we will be able to review them on our computers within minutes. We can show you the images and talk through exactly what we are seeing and how this is playing a role in your health.
Getting X-Rays of Your Spine in Walpole
If you’re dealing with a health issue, it’s possible that it’s connected to your spine. The spine plays a major role in your overall health. Being the main highway for the nervous system, it’s important to keep your spine healthy. When you come into our office for care, depending on your health concern, we may recommend getting an x-ray of your spine to help guide us in the best direction for your care.
Don’t let health issues and pain get any worse. Give us a call and book your appointment to come see our chiropractic team today!
