It was in 1910 when BJ Palmer, the founder of modern chiropractic medicine introduced radiography. His idea was that this new technology would aid in the discovery and visualization of subluxation. X-ray have since become a valuable tool for chiropractors by helping identify a range of different sources of pains, functional impairments and muscle weaknesses in patients which can be alleviated with chiropractic realignment of the spine.
The primary theory behind chiropractic therapy is to help the body heal itself by correcting subluxation of the joints, particularly the bones of the spine (vertebrae). Chiropractic treatments usually involve adjusting the joints and bones in a person’s spine using twisting, pulling, or pushing movements.
A US study of chiropractors found that 37% of their respondents thought the most important use of radiography was to establish the presence of subluxation. The same study also found that 43% of respondents radiographed more than 25% of their patients, a figure well above that of mainstream usage.
Contemporary chiropractic approaches to spinal rehabilitation that use x-ray imaging have demonstrated superiority over other treatments. Alternate diagnostic methods are often indirect and don’t reveal the true source of the patient’s pain or discomfort. This could result in misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment and a detrimental outcome for the patient.
Radiography reveals the true condition of the spine and has the ability to show chiropractors exactly what is happening inside the body in terms of skeletal structure and alignment. This remarkable imaging technique provides guidance to the chiropractor for how to manually manipulate the skeletal components.
Not only does x-ray provide detailed images of the skeletal system, it can also show the presence of scar tissue or arthritis. Both of these conditions require consideration when developing a treatment plan.
Chiropractors can use x-ray for a range of purposes including:
In any of the above cases, an x-ray would likely provide critical information that will direct treatment protocols and/or referral options for the patient.
X-ray allows chiropractors to see what an initial physical assessment may not show them. For example, during a physical assessment a chiropractor may be able to clearly see pelvic tilt in a person’s posture, but they may not be able to see or even feel the shifting sacral spine that accompanies it. Imaging the entire spine may provide evidence of further misalignments climbing up the spine.
Being able to see the full picture allows chiropractors to more clearly see problems and their catalysts. In doing so, chiropractors are able to provide a better level of treatment, make adjustments to patient care plans, and put all the pieces together again.
Not only is x-ray imaging crucial for chiropractors to be able to treat their patients to the best of their ability, it’s also important visual evidence for patients. Patients may seek hard evidence that they’re improving and progress is being made, x-rays provide just that.
X-ray imaging has the ability to show change to the spinal structure and alignment over time. Combined with the benefits patients can feel, x-ray images taken before and after treatment enable patients to see how adjustments with chiropractic therapy are helping their condition.
Along with being fantastic evidence of progress, as x-ray images become part of a patient’s history, they also offer a record of wellness and adjustments made. This historical record can be helpful in the future should any issues arise. For example, images outlining a herniated disc from a few years ago may give insight into how to treat sciatica pain in the present.
X-ray imaging is a crucial tool for chiropractors to utilize in their practice to better understand the issues afflicting their patients so they can treat them to the best of their abilities. If you're looking for advice, contact us today.