There are many diagnostic tools used by doctors and nurses in the medical field. Some, like the stethoscope, are familiar to most people. Others, like the CT scan or MRI, are less well known but no less important.

One of the most commonly used diagnostic tools is the x-ray. But why do we use x-ray imaging and x-ray technology? What makes them so important?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history and importance of x-ray images in diagnosing medical conditions, and we’ll look at some of the ways they’re being used today to improve patient care.

History of the X-Ray

The history of x-rays dates back to 1895 when Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered x-rays while experimenting with electricity. He was able to produce an image of his wife’s hand using an x-ray beam and the discovery quickly made him famous.

X-rays soon became widely used in the medical field and they continue to play a critical role in medical diagnosis.

What are X-Rays and What Is Their Purpose?

Did you know – worldwide, there are an estimated 3.6 billion x-rays performed every year? (Who International)

X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that can pass through most objects, including the human body. When x-rays hit human tissue, they produce an image that can be used to detect medical conditions.

They serve a unique purpose, as x-ray imaging is able to:

• Non-invasively and painlessly help to diagnose disease and monitor therapy
• Support medical and surgical treatment planning

Before performing x-rays, it’s necessary to consider the impact of radiation exposure, especially for pregnant patients. Typically, however, the result of the x-ray images outweighs the small radiation risk.

How are X-Rays Used to Diagnose and Treat Medical Conditions?

An X-ray procedure and x-ray equipment are used to diagnose and treat medical conditions, as they can:

1. Diagnose broken bones – one of the most common uses for this type of medical imaging.
2. Detect other medical conditions, such as tumors, internal bleeding, or cancer detection (such as breast cancer).
   On their own, x-rays can also provide health care providers with the appropriate information to make an accurate diagnosis. They are often also used alongside other diagnostic tools, such as CT scans and MRIs. The combination of medical imaging procedures allows doctors to get a complete overview before making a diagnosis.

X-Ray Services At Lincoln Urgent Care and Granite Bay Urgent Care

At Lincoln Urgent Care and Granite Bay Urgent Care, we offer are proud to offer x-ray services. Our fast, cost-effective x-ray solutions represent an excellent alternative to the traditional emergency room environment.

If you have any questions about an x-ray or if you would like to schedule an x-ray, please call our office to speak to a member of our staff. We would be happy to help you.