Will I need an x-ray

Will I need an x-ray?

Not all patients are routinely x-rayed. In some cases x-rays are necessary depending on past medical history. Your treatment may need to be modified according to what can be seen on x-ray. Chiropractors are trained and qualified to take and analyse x-rays. If you have had x-rays or other imaging recently, your chiropractor may ask for your written consent to access that information.

Spinal x-rays are taken to:-

  • Determine the cause of persistent pain, numbness or weakness.
  • Evaluate arthritis of the vertebra and the breakdown (degeneration) of the discs between the spinal bones.
  • Detect spinal abnormalities that might indicate fractures, infections, dislocations, tumours, bone spurs, disc disease or problems from birth (congenital).
  • Determine the extent of injuries to the bones of your spine when there has been trauma to the vertebrae.
  • Evaluate abnormal curvatures of the spine, such as scoliosis.
  • The x-rays are taken in a standing position (unlike NHS x-rays) to evaluate postural stress imposed on the spine.