Digital Motion X-Ray Vs MRI

DMX versus MRI: Understanding the Best Imaging Technique for Your Needs

When it comes to diagnosing significant injuries, particularly after an X-ray of the neck shows no abnormalities, the next step often involves an MRI. MRI is a powerful tool for examining soft tissue and ruling out severe conditions like tumors and major disc herniations. However, there are some limitations to consider with MRI technology, especially when it comes to spinal ligament injuries.

Limitations of MRI

Typically, MRIs are conducted while the patient is lying down, which means they are not weight-bearing. Some facilities offer upright MRIs which are preferable because they simulate the natural load on joints that occurs during standing or sitting, conditions under which most patients experience symptoms. Despite this, standard MRI primarily focuses on the spinal discs, which are just one type of ligament among many in the spine. Particularly in the upper cervical spine, known as the cervical cranial junction, there are no discs, rendering MRI less informative for assessing this crucial area.

The Importance of Assessing All Ligaments

The spine is supported by numerous ligaments – ten between each pair of vertebra, with the disc being just one. Unfortunately, the remaining nine are typically overlooked in standard MRI scans, making it insufficient for a comprehensive evaluation of spinal integrity. Considering that spinal ligament injuries are a leading cause of pain and disability globally, accurate diagnosis is crucial.

Why Digital Motion X-Ray is Superior for Diagnosing Spinal Ligament Injuries

The gold standard for diagnosing spinal ligament injuries is an imaging study that incorporates movement. Only through motion can excessive or abnormal movement be observed, indicating potential ligament compromise. The most effective method for this type of diagnostic study is Digital Motion X-ray (DMX). DMX is not limited to the spine; it can be applied to various joints throughout the body including the wrists, elbows, shoulders, jaw, and TMJ, as well as the hips, knees, and ankles. This makes DMX an invaluable tool in cases where other imaging modalities fail to identify the source of pain or disability.

Meridian Car Accident Chiropractic: Your Partner in Recovery

At Meridian Car Accident Chiropractic, we specialize in utilizing DMX to diagnose and treat hidden injuries from car collisions. Our team is dedicated to helping auto accident victims in Meridian, Idaho, navigate their recovery with top-tier clinical diagnostics and treatment. Idaho law ensures that if you are not at fault, your chiropractic care is fully covered.

If you or someone you know has been involved in any type of motor vehicle accident and is experiencing unresolved pain or disability, consider scheduling a consultation with us. Our expert chiropractors are trained to uncover and treat injuries that often remain undetected in standard exams. At Meridian Car Accident Chiropractic, we are committed to getting your life back on track without any out-of-pocket expenses for you or your loved ones.

To learn more about how DMX can help identify hidden spinal ligament injuries and to start your journey to recovery, call us today at (208) 581-4353.