Why Do I Need Joint X-RaysCorona, CA
When creating joint X-rays, a small amount of radiation is used to produce a picture of the joint inside the body. Doctors can quickly review the results to diagnose problems in the joints. Joint X-Rays are a beneficial service as they pose little risk to the patient and help the doctor the route of a problem.
While some doctors may have to refer you to a different practice for X-rays, at Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care, we can take X-rays and have our doctors review the results at the same location. If you are located in or around Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care and are experiencing joint pain, we can see you at any time of day.
Reasons Why a Patient Would Need Joint X-Rays
There are several reasons why patients may need joint X-rays. They can help doctors diagnose a variety of conditions in the joints. These conditions include:
- Dislocated joint: it can be hard to determine whether or not a joint is dislocated, and X-rays can help determine if the joint is dislocated.
- Cancer: if a doctor suspects there is cancer in the joint, the doctor may recommend an X-ray to take a closer look.
- Fracture: it can be difficult to diagnose a fracture by the symptoms alone, so a doctor may recommend an X-ray of the area to confirm.
- Trauma: after trauma to the joint, such as a sports injury or a car accident, a doctor may recommend a joint X-ray to make sure there is no permanent damage.
- Other problems: X-rays in the joints can also help diagnose other unexplained symptoms, such as swelling, pain, or tenderness. Arthritis may be diagnosed in this way.
What to Expect from the X-Ray Procedure
A joint X-ray is a painless procedure. Depending on where the X-ray is located, a patient may be asked to wear a gown. The patient will most likely need to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry or eyeglasses, from the body. Pregnant women should inform their doctors before joint X-rays because the radiation can harm the developing baby.
X-rays work by sending radiation through the patient. The radiation waves pass through the softer parts of the body, such as the muscles and organs. However, denser parts of the body, such as the bones, absorb the radiation waves. Because bones absorb radiation, they are visible on X-rays and appear whiter. The radiation records an image on a detector, which can be stored digitally on a computer.
A patient will usually lie down on an X-ray table under the equipment. If the X-ray is being taken for the knee, the patient may stand up. The X-ray technician will place the recording device under the table or behind the joint. The patient must lie very still while the technician goes to another room to activate the radiation.
For joint X-rays, the technician will often take two-three images from different angles. Having more than multiple angles enables the doctor to pinpoint the exact area of concern. In some cases, the technologist will also take images of the healthy joint to compare the area of concern. This enables the technician to also present to the patient a side-by-side comparison of how joint in questions should look. After the X-ray, the radiation will not remain in the patient's body.
Start Feeling Better – Visit Us Today
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with stronger medication and treatment options instead of ineffective store-bought products.
Visit an Urgent Care Center Today
Joint X-rays are painless, relatively quick procedures that can be used for a variety of reasons. These include diagnosing dislocated or fractured joints and determining if there is cancer in the joint. They can also be used to determine the cause of other joint problems, such as pain or swelling. If you are located near Corona and have questions about the joint pain you are having, you may contact Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care at (951) 272-5900.
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Why would I need Joint X-rays?
Q. Will the radiation from X-rays be harmful to my health?
Q. Can an X-ray reveal if I have cancer?
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