Why We Take X-rays on Every Patient With Headaches | Chiropractor in West Des Moines, IA
Hello everyone! Today, I want to show you precisely why we take X-rays for every patient who walks through our doors.
Initial Findings and the Importance of X-rays
When this particular patient first came to our clinic, she was experiencing severe migraines so intense that she had to wear sunglasses indoors due to light sensitivity. As we can see from her initial X-ray, her cervical spine was not only lacking the healthy 45-degree curve, but it was actually reversing direction—a condition that is far from ideal.
Here’s what we observed:
- Abnormal Curvature: Her neck was showing a reverse curvature instead of the normal, healthy arch.
- Disc Issues: The discs between her vertebrae were beginning to thin, showing early signs of degenerative changes.
- Osteophytes: These are bony growths that can appear due to ongoing stress and are a sign of early arthritis.
The Transformation Through Chiropractic Care
After a series of adjustments, coupled with diligent exercise and home care, significant improvements were made:
- Improvement in Curvature: From a detrimental -6 degrees to a much healthier 23.2 degrees, moving towards the optimal 45 degrees.
- Visual Confirmation: These changes were clearly documented in follow-up X-rays, showcasing the transformation towards a healthier cervical alignment.
Why X-rays Matter
This case perfectly illustrates why X-rays are indispensable in our practice. They allow us to see the underlying issues that aren’t apparent through a simple physical examination. For this patient, previous chiropractors had made adjustments without ever viewing the spine’s actual condition through X-rays. She was shocked to see her initial state but delighted by the significant improvement after our targeted treatments.
X-rays are a cornerstone of our diagnostic process here at Truth Family Chiropractic. They ensure that we’re not just making adjustments based on symptoms but are treating the root cause of discomfort based on detailed, inside-out views of the spine. This patient’s success story is just one of many that highlight the effectiveness of a thorough and informed chiropractic care approach.
