In our day-to-day lives, we all are exposed to low levels of radiation. The government has set standards of acceptable levels of radiation that pose little to no threat of the effects of exposure. X-ray machines and CT scanners occasionally make news because of, what is seen to be, an over use of this equipment. Chiropractic x-ray is a common diagnostic tool. Responsible use of this technology can assist in correct diagnosis, while keeping exposure to a minimum.
When a patient goes to a chiropractor, it is because of pain. Once the all-important insurance forms have been completed, confirming that the patient is worthy to be treated, the doctor is consulted. In most cases, the doctor requests x-rays of the trouble area. In some cases, this means a full x-ray of the spine.
The use of this technology is not always needed. Part of being a responsible person means you also take responsibility for taking charge of your health. If the doctor tells you that an x-ray will be taken, ask why the procedure needs to be conducted.
In some cases, an x-ray is a standard operating procedure. Many doctors employ this as a diagnostic method, while others use it as a precaution in order to avoid potential lawsuits. If your chiropractor seems to believe that an x-ray is necessary, ask why. You will also want to know whether or not only one area will be scanned or if a full spine workup is needed – and the latter will increase the radiation exposure.
An x-ray is often necessary when the patient has a chronic issue that has not responded to normal therapy. If the patient has been in an accident and is over age fifty, it is possible that there are hidden injuries. Seniors may also have bone issues, such as arthritis, that an x ray may be able to reveal.
It’s a good idea to request any and all repair and maintenance records on your doctor’s x ray equipment. By most state laws, these records are to be on file and your doctor should have a current certificate of compliance. While this may seem burdensome, it can lay your concerns to rest.
You can always refuse treatment – as can the chiropractor. This is a decision that you will have to make. If you refuse an x ray and the chiropractor won’t treat you without it, then you need to either find a doctor who will treat you without an x ray or come to some kind of understanding as to why the x ray is required and exactly what is going to be imaged.
The technology behind the chiropractic x ray dates back to the 1890s. Even today, it is the most commonly used of all diagnostic tools. Many concerns about the overuse of x rays are legitimate, but in many cases, the alternative of not knowing what is going on can be worse. Beware of medical practitioners who simply want to take x rays for the sake of taking them – but if you have a chronic pain and don’t know anything about what is causing it, the x ray may be your best option.
For the latest data on chiropractic x ray, consult articles and blog posts by Dr. Anne Harvester, resident medical expert on diagnosis and the latest medical imaging technology.
