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Patient DiagnosticsBesides a thorough physical exam by Dr. Thomas, Allied Healthcare Clinics may utilize one or more of the following diagnostic tests to more accurately treat your neck and back pain. These tests are covered by most insurance plans.X-Ray X-rays, taken at Allied Healthcare Clinics, are used by Dr. Thomas to find both problems and symptoms. X-rays show misalignments that may be the source of pain or a result. They can also show evidence of osteoarthritis through the presence of calcium deposits (osteophytes), among other conditions. X-rays can reveal areas of high stress and degenerative conditions in the spinal region. In most care plans for back and neck pain, X-rays are standard. This insight provides essential data for a more accurate analysis and proper treatment plans. MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that utilizes a powerful magnetic field of radio frequency pulses with a computer to create a detailed picture of the internal body structures such as the organs, soft tissues, and bones. Allied Healthcare Clinics refer patients to local facilities for MRI tests. MRI results show the presence of herniated, ruptured and bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other conditions. They will also show osteoarthritis and other bone conditions in detail. CT Scan (CAT Scan-Computerized Axial Tomography) A CT Scan helps to diagnose medical conditions by utilizing special X-ray equipment and computers to create images from inside the body. In general, Dr. Thomas prefers MRI to assist in diagnosis of spinal and muscular issues. Dr. Thomas may order a CT Scan, when an MRI is not appropriate for health reasons. A patient with a pacemaker, for example, might go for a CT Scan, as they cannot have an MRI. A CT Scan is like a three dimensional X-Ray. It offers a cross-sectional view of the body that is more targeted and precise than a standard X-Ray. By taking X-Rays at close consecutive parts of the body-picture a loaf of bread-a full, three dimensional image is obtained. NCV/EMG Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) and Electromyography (EMG) are tests that measure nerve conduction and muscle action. Through these tests, the root cause of symptoms (e.g. weakness, sciatica) is identified as either a nerve or muscle disorder. This test can pinpoint the cause of pain, even when multiple disc issues are noted on an MRI. In practical application, Allied Healthcare Clinics can target the most painful areas, first. For patients with carpal tunnel symptoms, NCV/EMG can see if it originates with a disc issue in the neck or is actually a wrist issue. NCV measures the impulse speed of the nerve, which conveys the existence and extent of nerve damage. Conducted in our office, NCV/EMG is quick and relatively painless. Click for details on test day instructions. Bone Scan A bone scan uses a nuclear scanning test and is used to look for new areas of bone growth or breakdown. A bone scan diagnosis can find or rule out bone cancer, and see conditions like trauma or infection that are affecting the bones. Using radioactive tracer, injected into an arm vein, bone scans can take a few hours to wait for tracer to make its way through the bloodstream into the bones. A special camera takes pictures of the tracer, showing cell activity and function. Depending on the color or lack of tracer in the bone, infarction, cancer, arthritis, a tumor, a fracture or an infection may present. Dexa ScanningDEXA Scanning is the most widely used measure for bone density. Commonly used for those who are at risk for osteoporosis, the DEXA uses x-rays from two sources toward the bone. Mineral density in the bone, prolongs the transmission of the x-ray energy through a filter onto a counter. DEXA Scans are more accurate and precise than previous methods and also subject the body to less radiation. They are shorter in duration than previous methods, and also less expensive. Go from Patient Diagnostics to Patient Information What is your level of pain? Take our Free Assessment. Allied Healthcare ClinicsCall us with any questions or concerns at 770-460-1911 and schedule an appointment.
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| Homepage | Contact Us |IDD Therapy®| Location |Disclaimer |
Allied Healthcare Clinics The information on Proven-Back-Pain-Relief.com is intended for general knowledge and not to be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice, diagnosis or treatment of a specific condition.
For all health issues seek professional chiropractic or medical assistance. |
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