Can A Calgary Chiropractor Order an MRI?

Maintaining spinal health is crucial, but diagnosing back pain can be complex. Calgary chiropractors use various tools to pinpoint the cause of pain, and one of the most powerful is the MRI. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, over 2.5 million MRI exams were performed in Canada in 2020, reflecting their importance in medical diagnostics.

This article explores why and when Calgary chiropractors might order an MRI, how the process works, and why it’s vital for patient care.

Why Calgary Chiropractors Might Order an MRI

Calgary chiropractors are able to order MRI’s when clinically necessary for patient care. Your Calgary chiropractor at Axiom Chiropractic might order an MRI when they need detailed images of your spine and surrounding tissues. This is especially true if your pain persists despite initial treatments.

An MRI can reveal conditions that an X-ray might miss, such as soft tissue injuries or spinal tumors. It’s a critical tool for ensuring you get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Comparing X-rays and MRIs in Calgary

X-rays and MRIs serve different purposes in diagnosing back pain. X-rays are great for showing bone structure and detecting fractures. However, MRIs provide more detailed images of soft tissues, such as discs and nerves.

Think of it like watching TV in black and white versus in color; MRIs just show vastly more detail.

Indications for Ordering an MRI

There are several situations where a Calgary chiropractor might recommend an MRI. If they suspect disc degeneration, dislocations, or spinal stenosis, an MRI can confirm these conditions. Additionally, MRIs can help identify spinal tumors or fractures that might not be visible on an X-ray.

It’s about getting the most accurate picture of what’s going on inside your body. Especially in regards to soft-tissue injuries like those affecting your body’s nervous system.

Establishing an Imaging Standard of Care

Calgary chiropractors often start with X-rays and initial treatments to see if the pain improves. If there’s no significant improvement after a few weeks, an MRI might be the next step. This standard of care helps ensure that MRIs are only used when necessary. It’s a balance between effective treatment and cost considerations.

Addressing Sciatica Pain and MRI Usage

Sciatica pain can sometimes be made worse by improper chiropractic care. If conservative treatments don’t help after a few weeks, an MRI should be considered. This helps identify any underlying issues, such as herniated discs, that might be causing the pain.

It’s important to get a proper diagnosis to avoid worsening the condition. The same is true for treating pinched nerves in Calgary.

How Calgary Chiropractors Order MRIs

Ordering an MRI is straightforward for Calgary chiropractors. They use a process similar to ordering other diagnostic tests, like X-rays. Calgary chiropractors will typically use an online portal to streamline the process. This makes it easy to schedule the MRI and get the results quickly.

There are a few local companies in Calgary that provide diagnostic medical imaging services, such as Pureform Radiology.

Collaborating with Calgary Radiologists

Once the MRI is done, radiologists play a crucial role in interpreting the results. They provide detailed reports that help Calgary chiropractors, especially those at Axiom Chiropractic, make informed decisions about treatment. Sometimes, these reports are reviewed by multiple radiologists to ensure accuracy.

This collaboration ensures you get the best possible care based on detailed imaging.

Wrapping up MRI’s in Calgary

MRIs are invaluable tools in Calgary chiropractic care for diagnosing persistent back pain. They provide detailed images that reveal conditions not visible on X-rays, such as soft tissue injuries and spinal tumors. Calgary chiropractors use MRIs to ensure accurate diagnoses and create effective treatment plans.

Understanding when and why an MRI is necessary can significantly enhance patient care. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, consult with your Calgary chiropractor about the potential benefits of an MRI. This proactive approach can lead to better outcomes and improved spinal health.

Axiom Chiropractic’s Dedication to Patient-Centered Care

Our commitment at Axiom Chiropractic is to provide patient-centered care that aligns with your personal health goals and lifestyle. We understand that chiropractic care is a collaborative effort between chiropractor and practice member, and our goal is to support you every step of the way.

From the initial assessment to the ongoing maintenance and preventive care, we are dedicated to ensuring that your chiropractic experience is positive, transparent, and effective.

In summary, understanding the number of chiropractic visits you need is an integral part of your health journey. With Axiom Chiropractic, you can rest assured that your chiropractic care will be a tailored experience, designed to meet your individual health needs.

We are here to provide clarity and support as you navigate your path to improved health and wellness through chiropractic care.

What is an MRI machine and how does it work?