Medical Imaging

When injured, many of us visit the doctor to understand what is going on and hopefully get a treatment plan or referral.

There are generally 4 main types of scans a doctor will prescribe; X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT or MRI. What are each of these for and what do they reveal?

Following is a generalised overview of each type of scan. Keep in mind that this list covers most issues that are associated with the field of soft tissue and what I may experience in my clinic. These scan are used to provide information on much more than is listed here.

X-Ray - are used to detect broken bones, joint dislocation, spinal fusions, abnormal bone growth, arthritis, kyphosis, spondylolisthesis, arthritis and boney changes. X-Ray will expose the patient to radiation.

Ultrasound (sonography) - Is used to capture a live image inside your body. It is the best option when looking at soft tissue such as muscle, ligaments and nerves. Ultrasound does not expose the patient to radiation.

CT (cat-scan) - Is used to detect issues with nerves, bulging discs, tumors, infection or changes caused by trauma. CT scans will expose the patient to radiation.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) - Will show just about everything. Common uses are to detect abnormalities of the joint, tumors, cysts and other injuries to the body. MRI does not expose the patient to radiation.