Have you read about the negative 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 DEFINITELY! But have no fear: your Groton chiropractor at Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office is capable to diagnose well without them.
So, how does this influence your relationship with your chiropractor at Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office? Vitally, for your health. The explanation is that the chiropractic doctor is sharpened 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 Groton chiropractic center, Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office, the use of x-ray imaging can be reduced while maintaining 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 Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office know 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) Frequently 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 Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office’s doing the best service for you and meeting the standard of care for spine pain care today.
At our Groton 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 Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office’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 Groton treatment plan. Also, 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 Groton chiropractor determines their need. Such a conclusion is made carefully with benefit and risk in mind.
Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office is devoted 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.