Diagnostics

Diagnostics

Physicians

Diagnostics

Bone Density Scan (DXA or DEXA)

This is a type of x-ray that measures your bone density. Your doctor may recommend it if you're at risk for osteoporosis (that's a weakening of your bones). This scan is a quick and easy way to check for signs of bone density loss.

CT Scan (Computed Tomography; CAT Scan)

This scan lets doctors see inside your body by taking x-ray images from many angles. These are combined to show clear cross-section slices of parts of your body. A CT scan shows much more than a typical x-ray. It can show cancer and other problems.

Discography (Cervical)

This procedure, also called a "discogram," helps your doctor find painful spinal discs. It can show the source of pain in your neck. To see how it works, let's watch a discography done in the cervical spine.

Electromyography (EMG)

This is a test of your muscles and nerves. It usually has two parts. One is a nerve conduction study. This measures how well electricity moves through your nerves. The second part is a needle electromyogram. It records the electrical signals your muscles make when you move them. The results can help your doctor find problems linked to certain disorders or conditions.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

This scan lets doctors see inside your body without using radiation. Instead, MRIs use magnets and radio waves. An MRI shows clear views of your soft tissues. It can show cancer and other problems.

Myelography (Myelogram)

This outpatient procedure is a diagnostic examination of the spine. It allows the physician to identify problems involving the spine, the spinal cord and the nerve roots.

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)

This noninvasive, outpatient exam is used to measure how quickly nerves conduct electrical signals through the body. NCS is a valuable technique for diagnosing nerve damage. If damage exists, NCS can help a physician find its source.