How do I know if I need X-rays?
If you’ve recently broken a bone or you have an undiagnosed orthopedic problem, X-rays may be necessary to determine your course of treatment. The best way to know if you need X-rays for your current condition is to schedule a consultation with the team at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division.
Some signs you may need an X-ray include extreme pain in a joint or limb, difficulty moving a part of your body, or swelling and inflammation after an injury or accident.
What conditions can X-rays help diagnose?
X-rays are helpful in diagnosing many different conditions, including:
- Fractures: breaks or splintering in the bone due to injury, trauma, or disease
- Arthritis: inflammation in and around bones, ligaments, or tendons
- Disc problems: like herniations or degenerative disc disease
X-rays can also confirm the presence of specific conditions, like bone tumors or osteoporosis.
What happens after I get an X-ray?
After you have an X-ray, your physician will go over the results and show you the X-ray images. For many individuals, this process is helpful in understanding the cause of their pain or discomfort.
Your physician might recommend further diagnostic tests to determine the best treatment methods. Based on the results of these tests, you begin a treatment plan, which may include:
- Physical therapy: specific exercises or stretches done at home or with a physical therapist
- Surgery: when necessary, to address structural issues that can’t be resolved with other methods
- Cortisone injections: to reduce inflammation and pain
What are the benefits of X-rays?
There is no real replacement for an accurate X-ray — a tool used by all physicians — as the images indicate where your problem lies. With this type of diagnostic tool, your physician can create the most accurate and effective treatment plan.
To request a consultation today, call the office or book an appointment online.
