An X-ray is a quick and painless procedure that produces images of your bones inside your body.
An X-ray sends beams to pass through your body and they are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the material they pass through. Dense materials, such as bone and metal, show up as white on X-rays. The air in your lungs shows up as black. Fat and muscle appear as shades of gray.
Why Do an X-Ray?
X-rays are used to examine to reveal if there is arthritis, bone fracture, bone crack, bone density and other issues.
Radiation Exposure
The amount of radiation you’re exposed to during an X-ray depends on the tissue or organ being examined. Some people worry that X-rays aren’t safe because radiation exposure can cause cell mutations that may lead to cancer. Sensitivity to the radiation depends on your age, with children being more sensitive than adults.
Generally, however, radiation exposure from an X-ray is low, and the benefits from these tests far outweigh the risks.
However, if you’re pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, tell your doctor before having an X-ray. Though the risk of most diagnostic X-rays to an unborn baby is small, your doctor may consider another imaging test, such as ultrasound.
X-Ray Results
X-rays are saved digitally on computers, which can be viewed on-screen within minutes. A radiologist typically views and interprets the results and sends a report to your doctor, who then explains the results to you. In an emergency, your X-ray results can be made available to your doctor in minutes.
Bring your X-Ray in for Dr. Petersen to Review
After you get your X-ray, you can bring it into your next appointment with Dr. Petersen or you can email it to him and he will use it to help diagnose and treat you.