Sometimes, especially after a traumatic accident X-rays are necessary to make sure something is not broken or dislocated. We try to avoid taking X-rays whenever possible. The American Chiropractic Association recommends taking X-rays only if there has been a traumatic accident. We agree with this recommendation. It is also important to understand what an X-ray is good for and wha tit is not good for. X-ray shows bone but not muscle, cartilage, ligament or tendon. If you have what appears to be a muscle, ligament, cartilage or tendon problem then an X-ray would be useless. Most often these types of injuries known as "soft tissue" injuries do not require imaging. However, if they do an MRI would be the proper type of test. For example; if your knee hurts from running but does not hurt when you jump up and down the likelihood of it being a bone problem (stress fracture) is extremely small. An X-ray then would be useless in this case. An MRi on the other hand would show the "soft tissue" and let us know if you had a ligament sprain, cartilage degeneration, muscle tear or tendonitis.
When should I get an X-Ray?
X-Rays are indicated following a traumatic injury. X-rays are used to look for fractures and dislocations. There are times when an X-ray is used on repetitive strain injuries. It is common in the running community to get stress fractures and heel spurs. X-ray can be used to diagnose these conditions and would then help in directing the treatment of the injury. X-rays can also be used to measure an athletes legs. It is thought that 75% of the population has a leg that is longer on one side. That means that the bones are not equal in length on both sides. Having an anatomical leg length inequality can only be accurately diagnosed by this method. Only then can proper steps be taken to provide the athlete with approriate lifts in the shorter sides shoe to help bring them to balance.
When should I get an MRI?
There are many instances that may necessitate an MRI. Acute soft tissue injuries may require an MRI to accurately diagnose.
