Have you read about the adverse effects of x-rays and imaging? Is there anything to this avoiding x-rays and CT scans? Can they really hurt you? If you believe science, the feedback is YES! But have no fear: your McHenry chiropractor at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic is capable to diagnose well without them.
So, how does this change your relationship with your chiropractor at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic? Vitally, for your health. The explanation is that the chiropractic doctor is trained deeply in the non-x-ray and non-imaging aspects of diagnosing the cause as well as organizing the treatment of your lower back pain or extremity pain derived on his or her examination findings of your pain problem. Understand that a good doctor can pretty much diagnose your problem and its cause through a thorough examination, every now and then by just watching you and asking a few questions. Such a total examination as performed at your McHenry chiropractic center, OrthoIllinois Chiropractic, the use of x-ray imaging can be reduced while preserving your health and giving you the best health care attainable.
What is the scientific finding on x-ray and imaging of the spine today? It is this - and we at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic perceive this decision making process - clinicians should abstain from routine, immediate lumbar imaging in primary care patients with non-specific, acute or subacute low back pain and no evidence of underlying serious conditions. The researchers in this study did not address patient expectations that imaging must be done. (1) Regularly those expectations play a role in a patient's level of satisfaction with care. So, if we suggest that x-ray or CT or MRI imaging studies will be delayed for a period of time to see how you respond to chiropractic care, do not be surprised or upset. Accept it as OrthoIllinois Chiropractic’s doing the best service for you and meeting the standard of care for spine pain care today.
At our McHenry chiropractic clinic, such procedures as palpation, testing spine motion, testing nerves, checking muscle strength, appraising your general health can give nearly a 90% accurate impression of your problem. So why is it important to delay or prevent x-ray or CT examination? A study has shown that the lifetime risk of developing a cancer by a brain and abdominal CT were 33% and 28%, respectively. Even radiology residents need to know more about radiation hazards. Less than 25% of them, at best, understand the hazards of radiation. (2)
We trust that you’ll be grateful OrthoIllinois Chiropractic’s staying on top of this vital aspect to patient care, that this radiation risk is understood and considered in your lower back pain and neck pain examination and McHenry treatment plan. Further, our Cox Technic treatment plan is lead by the Rule of 50%. Cox (3) states that if the patient is achieving adequate relief, such as at least 50% within 3 to 4 weeks, that x-ray and MRI can be avoided. After all, x-ray and CT and MRI do not get you well; they should merely confirm a diagnosis but are only needed if your McHenry chiropractor determines their need. Such a conclusion is made carefully with benefit and risk in mind.
OrthoIllinois Chiropractic is committed to giving the best care with the least adverse side effects for your health condition. Contact us today for further details and begin your journey to improved health and a healthy, painfree spine.