X-rays help with diagnosis in a variety of situations. Usually your doctor will tell you if you need an x-ray, but you can expect to get one if you have an injury that may have twisted a joint or broken a bone, if you have certain kinds of suspected illnesses including pneumonia and some kinds of cancer, or even as a general screening like a mammogram for breast cancer.

The cost of x-rays varies with what part of the body is being scanned and what is being looked for.  Prices can range from $75 and up but this greatly depends n your insurance coverage and the part of the body that needs an x-ray.  To get a more accurate pricing, please give our facility a call.

Although you are exposed to a small amount of radiation, there is not a significant risk with this exposure. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, however, you should tell your doctor before the x-ray is performed. Certain types of x-rays may require being injected with a contrast medium, though, and that may cause reactions in some people, including allergic reactions, lightheartedness, or nausea.

X-rays are useful in identifying many different injuries and illnesses. Some of the most common are:

• Suspected fractures or other injuries to your bones

• Arthritis, osteoporosis, and dental decay

• Certain kinds of cancer, including bone cancers and breast cancer

• Enlarged heart or clogged arteries

• Infections in bones and lungs

• Digestive issues

• Swallowed objects or other foreign objects in the body

This is just a sample list.  Contact us if you want more information concerning your case.

Getting an x-ray is a painless procedure but may be uncomfortable for various reasons. You will usually have to remove clothing covering the part of the body being x-rayed, so it can help to wear clothes that make this easy. For some types of x-rays you may be given a contrast medium that allows certain parts of your body to be more visible in the x-ray. The contrast medium may be swallowed, injected, or given as enema and may have some mild to severe side effects such as lightheadedness, a feeling of warmth, nausea, or allergic reactions.

You will then be positioned for the x-ray itself. Sometimes various sandbags or pillows will be used to help you stay in a certain position. During the x-ray, you must hold completely still, so small children may be restrained to hold them in place. Many x-rays take only a few minutes, but some may last longer. Your x-ray technician will guide you through all the necessary steps.

X-ray results are now available digitally. Generally your x-ray technician will go over them with your doctor first and your doctor will then give you the results. This can happen in minutes.