Do You Need X-Rays To See A Chiropractor

Do chiropractors require x-rays with every patient?

The need for x-rays when seeing a chiropractor is a hotly debated subject. Some chiropractors x-ray almost every patient because they feel that it gives them very valuable information about the spine. Eg:

Is there degeneration in the sliding joints of the spine, affecting movement?
Does the patient have any congenital anomalies (variations in the normal shape of the bones). This includes malformed or asymmetrical joints, partial fusion of segments, variations in vertebral shape that affect stability, etc.
X-rays can confirm if there is a scoliosis (a sideways bend of the spine), where the apexes of curves are, and the degree on angulation involved.
Are there any more serious pathologies (like cancer or bone infection) that might be causing any pain?

X-rays show the shape of the bones and the shape can influence the way the spine moves and functions significantly.

However, some people argue that the amount of information gleaned from an x-ray does not warrant taking x-rays for every client and only a select few patients need x-rays. X-rays involve an amount of radiation to the patient, especially in the lower back, and you do not want to have too many x-rays in your life.

A scoliosis can be largely palpated by an experienced practitioner, and it can be argued that x-rays should only be taken if the patient is not responding to care in the expected way. X-rays can indicate if the person will be likely limited in their response to care, but this will be obvious over time anyway, and sometimes the response to care can be hard to predict by the shape of the bones alone.

If you feel strongly one way or another, talk to your chiropractor, so that you can make an informed decision.

Do chiropractors take x-rays?

Most international chiropractic degrees include education in radiography (taking x-rays) and all chiropractic courses include a significant education in radiology (reading both MRIs and x-rays). In Spain, however, chiropractic is not formally recognised as it is in most other modern countries, and as such does not permit chiropractors to take x-rays.

Can I Go To The Chiropractor While In Pain?

Stefan Becker

Chiropractor in Barcelona