An X-ray is the most common imaging technique used in a healthcare setting during the diagnostic process because it can highlight so many different issues. So if your doctor has ordered an X-ray of your spine, what might they be looking for? In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the spinal conditions that can easily be identified with the use of X-ray imaging.
Spine Issues That Can Be Seen On An X-Ray
In most instances, a spine specialist will only move forward with a diagnostic imaging exam after they’ve talked with the patient about their symptoms, reviewed their medical history and conducted an in-person exam. After these have been completed, they’ll have a good idea of what they might encounter during an X-ray. Some of the most common spinal issues that can be identified using a X-ray include:
- Spinal Fractures
- Bulging or Herniated Discs
- Nerve Impingement
- Bone Spurs
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Spinal Stenosis
- Curvature Disorders (Scoliosis, Kyphosis, etc.)
- Spinal Arthritis
- Spinal Tumors
- Spinal Osteoporosis
The key is that spinal imaging not only can help to identify what is going on inside your spine, but also where the issue is located. They can use X-ray imaging to determine the precise vertebra that is affected. This helps to increase treatment success likelihood because the doctor knows exactly where the issue is housed and can plan targeted treatment accordingly.
X-rays oftentimes help set the course for treatment because it offers an inside look at the issue and the surrounding structures. If the doctor notices that a disc has become too affected by arthritis or osteoporosis, they may skip some of the more conservative methods and move towards more hands-on interventions in order to provide relief. Without an X-ray or similar imaging test, it would be difficult to know how likely it is that someone would respond to a particular treatment, even if you could likely surmise their issue through a conversation and physical exam. X-rays may be diagnostic in nature, but they also help to dictate the path forward through treatment.
So if you are dealing with a new or chronic spinal issue, consider visiting a spine specialist and see if an X-ray is right for you. As you can see, there are a number of different problems that can be identified with the help of an X-ray, so there’s a good chance that the technique will help your specialist get to the bottom of your discomfort. For more information, or to set up an appointment with a spine specialist who can help identify and treat your back problem, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and the team at the Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.
