Why We Take X-rays on Every Patient With Neck Pain | Chiropractor in Westlake, OH
Hi everyone, Dr. Greg here from Paramount Chiropractic. Today, I want to emphasize the importance of comprehensive diagnostic imaging, particularly X-rays, in effectively diagnosing and managing neck pain.
The Significance of X-rays in Chiropractic Care
At our clinic, we utilize digital X-ray technology to enhance the accuracy of our diagnoses. This step is crucial and is typically conducted after a detailed collection of your medical history, digital posture analysis, and assessments of your range of motion. X-rays allow us to visualize the internal structure of your cervical spine, which is essential because symptoms alone can sometimes be misleading.
What We Look for in X-rays
A healthy cervical spine on an X-ray will show a nice, smooth curvature with evenly spaced discs and square, smooth vertebral bodies. This ideal alignment supports optimal nerve function and spinal health. However, not all cases present this way. For example, we often encounter patients who come in with complaints unrelated to neck pain, such as lower back pain, and are surprised to learn about underlying issues in their cervical spine.
Case Study: The Hidden Problems Revealed by X-rays
Consider a patient who experiences lower back pain but is unaware of any neck issues. Their X-rays reveal multiple levels of disc degeneration, bone spurs, and even beginnings of spinal fusion, along with a significant loss of the natural curvature of the neck. These findings illustrate that relying solely on physical symptoms can be insufficient for a full understanding of one’s spinal health.
The Value of X-rays in Chiropractic Treatment
This example underscores why we prioritize X-rays in our diagnostic process. It ensures that we do not guess about your health; instead, we provide targeted, informed treatment based on a comprehensive understanding of your spinal condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, remember that feeling fine is not always synonymous with being fine. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage and maintaining optimal health.
If you’re dealing with persistent back or neck pain, don’t hesitate to contact us at Paramount Chiropractic. We’re here to help you get to the root of the problem and guide you back to health.
