RSSTo Xray or Not to Xray in the Westside Observer
Check out your San Francisco Chiropractor’s article that was published recently in the Westside Observer.
San Francisco Chiropractic
Scott Swanson Chiropractor in San Francisco
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Themocracy
I really appreciated this article about x-rays. I have had so many in the past and have been concerned about the amount of radiation I have had in the last 30 years before knowing Dr. Swanson. His article gives me the courage to evaluate all x-rays suggested in the future.
I wish there were more doctors like Dr. Swanson who really evaluates each patient for their individual needs and uses the very best and safe methods to make me like new.
Hi Dr. Scott,
I had to re-read your article after realizing I missed an important component to your recommendations.
X-ray is a major component of figuring out how to adjust a person in need effectively, and safely. I cannot count how many times I have changed my mind on what to adjust and how to adjust a spine after seeing a patients films. It actually happened today!
When a person enters my office, nothing is done without a thorough history and examination. At that point the decision is made on x-rays, but it is not uncommon to find out that the persons chief complaint has actually been around much longer then, “I hurt my back last night.”
Anyways, I am sure you are aware of this, the article in question seemed to paint too broad of a stroke for the many different scenarios regarding sudden low back pain.
Based on my experiences over the years, MRI’s are what patients seem to be demanding more nowadays. Much of the time I find them completely unnecessary, but most are convinced it will help the, even if the treatment plan or pronosis won’t change even after seeing positive findings.
Anyways, I enjoy your blog. Keep it up.
Thanks for reading Dr. Gibson and by the way I love Seattle and what a great neighborhood Queen Anne is.
I didn’t address chronic lower back pain in my article, however, In my practice I have found x-rays rarely influence how I treat a patient, chronic or acute. I base my decision primarily on the ACR’s Appropriateness Criteria. Secondary to that I will x-ray if my exam suggests a condition that may influence my treatment and rarely on a gut feeling.
That being said I know many chiropractors, especially those practicing Gonstead that feel x-rays are an essential part of determining how to adjust a patient. I don’t have any problem with that. It’s sad FCER closed it’s doors this year, we need more research on techniques and practice styles.