We would definitely advise against it. We understand that not all injuries or conditions require X-ray exams, but it’s definitely better safe than sorry—especially when you’re experiencing pain.

Our AFC Urgent Care NC team provides further info on X-rays below, so read on!

What Is an X-ray?

An X-ray is a type of electromagnetic radiation that passes through the body to aid in diagnosing internal health complications. When X-rays pass through the part of your body under examination, they produce an image on film.

The X-ray image looks like a set of shadows on a piece of plastic film that shows bones as white, air as black and soft tissues as varying shades of gray. We’ve listed some reasons why getting an X-ray would be necessary below.

Reasons Why X-rays Are Necessary

• To diagnose bone fractures. Detection of broken bones is one of the most common uses of this test.
• To diagnose dislocations. An X-ray examination can reveal if the bones of a joint are abnormally positioned.
• As a surgical tool. For example, X-ray images taken during orthopedic surgery show if the fracture is aligned or if the implanted device such as an artificial joint is in position.
• To diagnose bone or joint conditions, such as some types of cancer, arthritis or osteoporosis
• To diagnose chest conditions, such as pneumonia, lung cancer, emphysema or heart failure
• To detect foreign objects in the body, like metal fragments or swallowed coins

Is There a Time When I Shouldn’t Schedule an X-ray?

Honestly, if you’re ever questioning things like your joint or bone health, we’d always recommend getting an X-ray. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your internal health.

The only time that it’s truly necessary to consider not getting an X-ray for your condition is if you are pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended if that is the case.

More Conditions That May Require an X-ray

• Bone cancer
• Breast tumors
• Enlarged heart
• Blocked blood vessels
• Digestive problems
• Tooth decay

Injuries can happen among adults and kids alike, especially at local summer and sports camps! Don’t wait to visit one of our AFC Urgent Care NC centers to get an X-ray or the general medical care that you or your children need.