Why Chiropractors Use X-Rays
Chiropractors are highly trained to assess your spine and neuro-musculoskeletal issues through specific tests and using their hands. However, in certain cases, this is not enough and we need to be able to thoroughly assess and see the health of your spine. X-Rays are fantastic for looking at the ‘bony’ structures and joints. However, if you have a suspected disc injury, your chiropractor may possible recommend an MRI instead as this shows different tissues including the discs. Safety of Modern digital X-rays use is very low radiation. One spinal X-Ray is roughly the same radiation as a cross-country flight. All X-Rays are done with safety in mind.
Some common reasons why we take an x-ray include:
• To assess spinal alignment and posture
• To check for wear and tear and arthritis
• To rule out fractures, tumours, or underlying conditions
• To help guide safe, specific adjustments
• For chronic pain or injuries that aren’t improving
When X-Rays Are (and Aren’t) Necessary
X-Rays are a tool, not a requirement for every patient. This is taken case by case, and the thorough history and examination will be able to give us clarity on this. X-Rays can be a valuable tool in helping identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and guiding safe, effective treatment. X-Rays are recommended only when they are likely to add value to your diagnosis or influence your treatment plan. For some patients, having an X-Ray can not only improve diagnostic accuracy but also offer peace of mind by clearly visualising the problem.
Although not every chiropractic patient needs an X-Ray, there are situations where imaging provides essential insight, especially when symptoms are complex, persistent, or when serious conditions are suspected. It can also gives insight as to how quickly an injury can heal. If you can imagine that a spine with no wear and tear versus one with a lot will have different recovery times. The picture below is a great visual of this:
How X-Rays Help With Your Treatment Plan
• Helps tailor adjustments to your unique spine
• Allows monitoring of progress over time
• Gives a clear visual to explain what’s going on
It’s important to remember that not every change seen on an X-Ray, such as disc degeneration or joint wear, automatically explains your pain. That’s why our chiropractors always consider your symptoms, physical findings, and imaging results together to determine the most appropriate and personalised course of care. If you have X-Rays
taken, your chiropractor will always spend time with you to explain what your images show and how this links to your recovery.
Below is an example of a scoliosis in the Low back (lumbar spine). This will trigger compensation causing increased workload to the blowback and other areas of the spine.
Some of you may not know that we have digital X-Ray facilities onsite for your convenience. So if you are ever in need of an X-ray this can be organised with ease to be able to assess you.
If you know someone who could benefit from this email, please share it with them. We offer a complimentary spine check to anyone who is interested in how chiropractic may be able to help them.
