X-Rays and MRIs

 

Occasionally the chiropractor will order advanced imaging or testing to rule out potentially more serious disorders or to gain a better understanding of the patient’s condition. The two most commonly obtained advanced tests are X-Rays and MRIs.

 

An X-Ray is a picture of your bones and shows the contrast between soft tissue and bony material. X-Rays are typically ordered following any type of trauma, such as an automobile accident or other various injuries when traumatic changes are suspected. This allows us to assess the affected region for any fracture, dislocation, or traumatic changes to the joint. X-Rays may also be ordered when specific disorders are suspected that are most easily diagnosed by X-Ray findings. The X-Ray request will always be discussed with the patient prior to proceeding with the imaging, and the clinical reasoning behind the request will be expressed.

 

An MRI is a test requested when soft tissue structures, such as muscles, ligaments, and cartilage need to be viewed. MRIs show contrast between different types of soft tissue, and display many structures that are not identifiable on X-Rays. MRIs may be requested when soft tissue pathologies such as disc herniations, tendonitis, or torn ligaments are suspected. If a patient does not respond to conservative chiropractic management, an MRI may also be ordered to rule out an underlying pathology. The MRI request will always be discussed with the patient prior to proceeding with the imaging, and the clinical reasoning behind the request will be expressed. For our patient’s comfort, all of the MRI tests ordered by the physicians at ChiroCare Integrations are performed in an open MRI center, limiting the amount of enclosed area during the exam.