Why We Take X-rays On Every Patient With Neck Pain | Chiropractor in West Des Moines, IA
Hello, I’m Dr. Kevin from Truth Family Chiropractic. Neck pain is one of the most common complaints we address in our clinic. Today, I’ll explain the vital role of X-rays in diagnosing and treating neck pain.
The Anatomy of the Cervical Spine
First, let’s look at a healthy cervical spine model:
- Discs: These are thick and act as cushions between the vertebrae.
- Nucleus Pulposus: The center of the disc, crucial for disc health.
- Vertebral Bodies: Should be smooth without arthritis or bone spurs.
- Intervertebral Foramen: The nerve passage, which should be wide to avoid nerve compression.
The Degenerated Cervical Spine
Now, compare that to a degenerated spine:
- Bone Spurs/Arthritis: Visible on vertebrae edges, indicating degeneration.
- Narrowed Nerve Passages: Reduced space can lead to nerve pinching and severe pain.
X-Ray Analysis
X-rays are indispensable for accurately assessing the spinal alignment and condition. They show us:
- Curvature: A healthy neck should have a lordotic curve, often described as an “arc of life” due to its importance in spinal health. This curve reduces tension on the spinal cord.
- Degeneration: Early detection on X-rays can show disc thinning and the formation of osteophytes.
- Post-Surgical Changes: X-rays reveal the outcomes of surgeries, such as fusion with plates and screws, highlighting the importance of maintaining natural spine alignment to avoid invasive procedures.
Case Studies
- Normal Curve with Early Arthritis: Even with phase one arthritis, a good curvature can mitigate neck pain effectively.
- Post-Surgical Spine: Shows limited mobility and severe arthritis, underscoring the necessity of preventive care.
- Structural Abnormalities: An S-curve can place unusual stress on the spinal cord, leading to pain and headaches.
- Misalignment: A front-facing X-ray can reveal significant deviations from the ideal plumb line alignment, exacerbating neck issues.
Our goal in using X-rays is not just to identify the presence of subluxations and their severity but to understand the underlying causes of neck pain. By visualizing the spine’s condition, we can tailor our treatment plans to provide the most effective relief and long-term health benefits.
Understanding the detailed structure of your spine through X-rays allows us to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of your neck pain, ensuring more sustainable and effective treatments.
