X-ray
X-rays provide detail of the bone structures in the
spine, and are used to rule out:
They image bones by shooting an x-ray beam through
the body. The calcium in bone blocks penetration of
the x-ray beam and the image of the bones is picked
up as a shadow on a film positioned on the other side
of the patient (see Figure
1).
X-rays provide for excellent bony detail because bone
consists mainly of calcium. However, discs and nerve
roots do not have any calcium, so an x-ray does not
capture an image of these structures. An x-ray, therefore,
cannot be used to diagnose lumbar disc herniation or
other causes of nerve pinching.
X-rays should not be performed in women who may be
pregnant.
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