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We see a lot of injuries in this clinic which means a lot of medical reports and scans. So I thought I would give a little summary of the ones we see often in case you ever find yourself needing one…hopefully not though!

X-Ray

• X-rays are a naturally occurring form of electromagnetic radiation; they are produced when charged particles (electrons or ions) of sufficient energy hit a material.
• Because bones are rich in calcium the X-rays are absorbed and appear white on the resulting image.
• Uses one beam of radiation.
• There is still debate on the safety concerning this form of imaging due to the fact that radiation is involved but it is of very low dose and the benefits usually outweigh the risks.

CT (Computed Tomography) scans

• A series of narrow electromagnetic beams that move in an arc alongside the body. Combined sectional images sent to a computer create a 3D image.
• New spiral CT scans move in a zig zag to provide a more complete trace without leaving any gaps.
• Sometimes a contrast dye such as barium is used to provide a clearer definition of tissue.
• Used for imaging soft tissues and organs of the body.
• Higher radiation, source of ionizing radiation.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

• An MRI scan uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to create a detailed cross-sectional image of the patient’s internal organs and structures.
• It uses the magnets in the scanner to detect proton particle activity in our body then sends the information to a computer which develops imaging.
• Less harmful since it does not use ionizing radiation.
• Allows imaging of tendons and ligaments, which a CT scan does not.
• Better evaluation of the spinal cord.
• Functional MRIs closely follow brain activity, allowing better research, diagnosis and treatment.

Ultrasound

• A type of scan that uses high frequency sound waves to create images in the body called sonograms.
• Ultrasound is a higher frequency sound that humans cannot hear.
• The sound travels thru soft tissues and fluid but bounces back off of higher density surfaces to allow imaging to appear.
• The image appears in varying shades of gray, which depends on the density of the surface on which the sounds waves reflect.

Caroline Iwasaki, RMT