Spinal X-rays are
used so the doctor can locate areas of subluxations (spinal misalignments
causing nerve stress), mechanical problems, and any signs of degeneration. This
information will help the doctor to determine an appropriate course of
chiropractic care to correct
your problem, and how the spinal segments involved are to be
adjusted.
The results of your X-rays will also help the
doctor to determine if your case can be accepted for chiropractic care, or if a
referral is required.
If you had X-rays taken from a
medical office or hospital, you likely
have X-rays that were taken for different reasons. These X-rays they may
not provide your Chiropractic Doctor with the essential information they need. A Chiropractor
will most often require an X-ray called the full
spine X-ray, which involves mainly two pictures of your entire spine; one from
the front and one from the side, while you are standing or weight bearing. The
information on these
x-rays will be used on every visit to give you customized care.
This
is an example of a patient who's initial complaint of neck pain and headaches
was the result of a Phase 1 Subluxation involving a loss of cervical curve (black dotted line)
with an angle measuring only 16 degrees. (An optimal curve
should have an angle in the range of 40-45 degrees and is depicted by the red
line.)
Most often, a typical spinal corrective program
may involve a period of at least 3-6 months. In this case, follow-up X-rays were
taken after 2 months to evaluate progress. The patient's cervical curve now
measures 27
degrees! (See how
the black line appears closer to the red line.)
The improved spinal alignment has helped this
patient by reducing their neck pain and headaches. Did this patient need pain
medication to relieve their symptoms? NO! The cause
of the problem has been addressed, thus correcting their subluxation. The
improved alignment of the patient's spine has resulted in reduced joint, muscle,
and nerve stress. The healthy spinal alignment and motion will also help prevent
further degeneration of the spinal joints and discs. Regular maintenance visits
are recommended to keep this patient at optimal spinal health.
It is a FACT that abnormal spinal motion and position can lead to spinal decay.
What will you do when your spine wears
out?
Schedule a Chiropractic Spinal Check-up
today!
905-858-4344
