X-Rays in Chiropractic Care

When you go to a chiropractor for your first consultation, they may want to give you an x-ray. This is a standard procedure in chiropractic care, but some people wonder why the x-rays are necessary. Keep reading for more information.

X-Rays Are Used for Diagnostics 

One of the most important aspects of chiropractic care has to do with diagnosing the problem. Chiropractors use different diagnostic techniques and tools to understand what is happening in your musculoskeletal system, and how they may provide treatment to bring you relief.

One of the most commonly used diagnostic tools that chiropractors rely on is the x-ray. While there have been many tools developed since the x-ray that can help chiropractors understand more about your body, they are typically invasive and more related to surgery. MRIs and CT scans are used during the planning process of surgery if x-rays aren’t sufficient for a physician’s needs. These types of imaging tools are not needed in chiropractic care, however. Because chiropractors only need to determine the layout of your bones in your body, they do not need to use other imaging tools.

Performing an x-ray on a patient will allow a chiropractor to see exactly what is happening with your bones in terms of alignment. This allows them to diagnose and then treat the problem. Chiropractors use their hands to perform spinal manipulations to correct alignment issues within your body. Additionally, an x-ray will be able to convey other information to them – such as the presence of arthritis or scar tissue. These things will need to be taken into account when coming up with a treatment plan.

X-Rays Aren’t Always Needed

It’s important to note that an x-ray won’t always be needed in chiropractic care. Often, your chiropractor will be able to determine what problem needs to be corrected without using an imaging system. Typically, x-rays are used in cases where a serious condition may exist, such as osteoporosis or scoliosis.

Other imaging technologies can be used in chiropractic care, but it’s very rare. To completely understand the musculoskeletal health of their patient, a chiropractor may use an x-ray during a consultation to achieve some additional insight. This allows them to see the spine and joints differently, so they can see things that may not have been noticed before. While some people are concerned about the effects of x-rays, the advantages of them far outweigh the risks. For any questions about how chiropractic care can benefit you, make sure to contact a chiropractor in Palatine, IL.

Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into chiropractic care and x-rays.