Chiropractors take x-rays for the same reasons orthopedists and dentists take them, to get more information and a clearer picture of what might be happening and causing your pain. If you have back pain and have not had any spinal x-rays for a couple of years we would most likely recommend taking one or more x-rays to look for potential sources such as abnormal curvature of the spine, scoliosis, and degeneration of the discs and joints (this may or may not be painful at first but can affect one’s overall posture, movement patterns and other systems of the body as well). Some people might be born with extra vertebrae (bones of the spine) or be born with vertebrae that are fused or misshapen. Infections, disease conditions of the muscle or bones, fractures and cancer are examples of additional potential sources of pain that can be picked up on an x-ray. Other variables that we are also looking for in your initial exam are range of motion in the joints, nerve irritation, reflexes, soft tissue damage, inflammation, swelling and muscle tone.
X-rays help find the source of aches and pain, giving us important, detailed information so we can chose the most effective treatment program for you. If you have additional questions or concerns before having your x-rays taken, give us a call. We’re always more than happy to talk to you about it.