Without X-Rays, Many Chiropractors are Missing the Bigger Picture

There are certain practices in the medical world that become standard for a reason. Doctors wash their hands to stem the spread of germs. Nurses ask about allergies to medication to prevent dangerous reactions. Your dentist taps your gums to make sure the anesthetic has kicked in before drilling. It’s all done for the good of the patient.

In the world of chiropractic, taking x-ray films of patients before making any adjustments is quickly becoming standard. In fact, Ideal Spine chiropractors are educated on the importance of radiological imaging above all else, as part of an introduction to the Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) modality.

What benefits do x-rays offer?

Most chiropractors are knowledgeable enough in their practice to understand spinal misalignments through palpitation or even sight. But while this might clue a chiropractor in on an area of focus, it does little to qualify the nature of the misalignment. X-ray films provide qualitative and quantitative data that can be leveraged into a highly customized treatment solution.

For example, rotation of the C6 and C7 vertebrae can be felt through palpitation. But to what degree are they rotated? And, moreover, is this rotation accompanied by any lateral movement? If so, to what degree? Through films, a chiropractor can juxtapose a physical image of this affected area against an ideal spine model to qualify what they may already know to be a problem.

Qualification then opens the door for treatment. In this same example, slight rotation and accompanying lateral movement may require a three-week adjustment schedule, coupled with posterior chain strengthening and myofascial release.

Seeing the whole picture

X-rays also enable chiropractors to see what a pedestrian assessment might not show them. For example, a chiropractor may be able to clearly see posterior pelvic tilt in a person’s posture, but they may not be able to see or even feel the shifting sacral spine that accompanies it, due to the severity of the situation. Further, imaging the entire spine may yield evidence of misalignments climbing up the spine, showing lumbar or thoracic deviation.

Visual understanding is unparalleled

The spine is like a puzzle. For chiropractors, x-ray imaging is like being able to look at the box, to get an idea of what all of the pieces add up to. Having everything laid out in front of them, chiropractors are often more apt at seeing problem areas and their catalysts clearly. This enables a better level of treatment as a CBP adjustment schedule is mapped out.

For patients too, visual evidence of manipulation is important. Before and after films of their spine enable patients to see the power of CBP at work and, coupled with the benefits they can feel, reinforce the adjustments and improvements made. X-ray films are verifiable proof in progress, which is what many patients seek.

Finally, films offer a record of adjustment and wellness. They become part of a patient’s history, cluing chiropractors in when it comes to future issues. As an example, films outlining a herniated lumbar disc from years past may yield insight into how to treat sciatica pain in the present.

Best practices exist for a reason

Taking radiological films at the outset of treatment is an engrained part of Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) and the Ideal Spine practice. Films offer substantial benefit throughout the treatment and recovery process, and they pave the way for an all-around better understanding of a spinal situation. Just like washing hands and inquiring about allergies, taking films is becoming a standard best practice because it’s backed by undeniable benefit.

Chiropractic BioPhysics® corrective care trained Chiropractors are located throughout the United States and in several international locations. CBP providers have helped thousands of people throughout the world realign their spine back to health, and eliminate a source of chronic back pain, chronic neck pain, chronic headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, and a wide range of other health conditions. If you are serious about your health and the health of your loved ones, contact a CBP trained provider today to see if you qualify for care. The exam and consultation are often FREE. See www.CBPpatient.com for providers in your area.