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 answer is YES! But have no fear: your Easley chiropractor at Young Chiropractic is equipped to diagnose well without them.

So, how does this affect your relationship with your chiropractor at Young Chiropractic? Vitally, for your health. The reason is that the chiropractic doctor is trained intensely in the non-x-ray and non-imaging aspects of diagnosing the cause as well as establishing the treatment of your lower back pain or extremity pain based on his or her examination findings of your pain problem. Realize that a good doctor can pretty much diagnose your problem and its cause through a thorough examination, sometimes by just observing you and asking a few questions. Such a complete examination as performed at your Easley chiropractic center, Young Chiropractic, the use of x-ray imaging can be minimized while preserving your health and giving you the best health care possible.

What is the scientific finding on x-ray and imaging of the spine today? It is this - and we at Young Chiropractic understand this decision making process - clinicians should refrain from routine, immediate lumbar imaging in primary care patients with non-specific, acute or subacute low back pain and no indications of underlying serious conditions. The researchers in this study did not address patient expectations that imaging must be done. (1) Often 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 Young Chiropractic’s doing the best service for you and meeting the standard of care for spine pain care today.

At our Easley 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 appreciate Young Chiropractic’s staying on top of this important aspect to patient care, that this radiation risk is understood and considered in your lower back pain and neck pain examination and Easley treatment plan. Further, our Cox Technic treatment plan is guided by the Rule of 50%. Cox (3) states that if the patient is attaining 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 Easley chiropractor determines their need. Such a decision is made carefully with benefit and risk in mind.

Young 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.