What Tests Are Performed to Obtain a Diagnosis?
- Posted on: Sep 28 2017
If you’ve been injured at work, you want to get back on your feet as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, before you can get the right treatment, you need to understand the source of your injury. In order to help you find the right diagnosis, your workers’ compensation chiropractor will have you undergo a series of tests.
Tests are common anytime you need to visit a chiropractor for an injury. Through accurate diagnostic testing, you and your chiropractor can better understand your injury and pain and help you get the treatment you need.
Let’s take a look at what kinds of tests you may need to undergo if you’ve been injured at work.
General Radiology and X-Rays
General radiology, most frequently referred to as x-rays, are commonly administered tests to find the source of an injury. Not only can an x-ray help identify any misalignment with your spine, but it can also detect potential diseases in the soft tissue. In many cases, an x-ray will be the first test your chiropractor will administer.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI is another common test that your chiropractor may administer to find a diagnosis. Like an x-ray, an MRI develops images that can help your doctor further understand your injury. However, an MRI uses a magnetic field to create images of your organs, bones, or soft tissue. This allows them to see not only the spine, but also the discs, spinal cord, and other areas of the back that may be injured.
Electromyography (EMG/NCV)
If your injury is in your nerves or muscles, your chiropractor may call for an electromyography or an EMG/NCV. An EMG measures electrical activity within your muscles while an NCV measures how quickly electrical impulses travel through your nerves. A EMG/NCV can help your chiropractor determine carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or other injuries in the nerves. Typically an emg/ncv is performed by a referred, workers compensation certified, board certified neurologist and or physiatrist (physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor).
Your worker’s compensation chiropractor will help you determine the best diagnostic test based on your injury and symptoms. If you have additional questions about diagnostics or you’re ready to schedule an appointment, contact the Brooklyn office of Dr. Jeff Mollins at 347.842.4596.
Posted in: Diagnostic Testing, Physical Examinations
