When it comes to chiropractic care, a common question that arises is whether or not X-rays are always necessary. At Crimson Chiropractic Center, we want patients to know that we always put their best interests first when determining whether or not they’re a candidate for X-rays.
X-rays can be incredibly useful in certain situations. If you have recently experienced significant trauma, have osteoporosis, or are over seven years old, X-rays might be recommended. They can help detect fractures, scoliosis, tumors, and gross infections within the spine. When there is suspicion of any of these conditions after consultation and examination, X-rays can provide valuable information.
Pinpointing Misalignments and Nerve Irritation
One of the primary benefits of X-rays in chiropractic care is their ability to reveal misalignments in the spine. By pinpointing these misalignments, your chiropractor can better understand the source of your problems and provide more targeted treatment. X-rays can also indicate the location of pinched nerves and narrowing in the spine, helping identify areas where nerves may be irritated.
Situations Where X-Rays May Be Unnecessary
In some cases, X-rays may not be necessary for chiropractic care. Young children typically do not require X-rays unless there is a specific concern. For adolescents, X-rays may be indicated for monitoring scoliosis between the ages of 11 and 13 in girls and 14 and 16 in boys.
The Safety of Chiropractic X-Rays
It’s natural to have concerns about the safety of X-rays and their potential risks. However, it’s important to note that there is no difference between chiropractic X-rays and any other type of X-rays. The amount of radiation from one adult chest X-ray is roughly equivalent to 10 days of natural background radiation exposure that we all experience in our daily lives. According to the American College of Radiology, it would require an extraordinarily high number of X-rays (5000 cervical or neck X-rays in a single encounter) to realize any adverse effects.
Experience the Benefits of Chiropractic Care
If you’re considering chiropractic care but have concerns about X-rays, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us. Our experienced team will thoroughly evaluate your condition and discuss the most appropriate course of action, including whether X-rays are necessary. Your comfort and safety are our utmost concern as we work together towards your optimal health and well-being.
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