Neck X-Rays

What are X-rays of the Neck?

One of the most common uses of an X-ray is to check for broken bones after an accident, but they are also used under many other circumstances.

X-rays are used to identify, diagnose, and treat many types of medical conditions. It is a key element and often times the first to be done in the diagnosis process.

A cervical spine X-ray is a safe and painless test that uses radiation to take a picture of the 7 vertebrae in the neck.

Reasons for a Neck X-Ray:

X-rays are used for a multitude of reasons. A physician may order an X-ray to check for certain cancers in different parts of the body by detecting abnormal tumors, growths or lumps.

A cervical spine and neck X-ray is used to view the area of the body where a patient is experiencing pain, swelling, or other abnormalities that require an internal view of the organs. The X-ray can help a physician find a cause for the problems occurring.

X-rays can be used to diagnose a disease, monitor the progression of the disease, determine a treatment plan, and see the effect of a treatment plan.

Physicians use X-rays to locate foreign objects within the body and to guide them in setting broken bones.

A Neck X-Ray may help diagnose (find):

Cervical spine and neck X-rays can detect fractures in the cervical vertebrae or dislocation of the joints between the vertebrae.

An X-ray of the cervical spine can find the cause of neck, shoulder, upper back, or arm pain.

X-rays of the cervical spine can also find the cause of tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm or hand.

A physician typically requests an X-ray of the cervical spine and neck after a severe accident resulting in an injury to the head, neck or back.

A cervical spine X-ray is requested if a patient is undergoing surgery of the cervical spine. It assists in planning and assessing prior to the surgery taking place.

X-rays of the cervical spine can also help physicians assess infection, tumors, or other abnormalities in the neck bones.