When Is It Necessary to Get an X-Ray?

You might wonder why your doctor has recommended an X-ray, how the process works, or whether it's really necessary. X-rays are quick, painless, and useful for diagnosing a range of conditions — and you don’t have to go to a hospital to get one. 

At Peaks Medical and Urgent Care in Dillon, Colorado, we provide on-site X-rays to make your visit convenient and stress-free. Here, we cover the most common reasons you might need an X-ray, what happens during the procedure, and what your results could reveal. 

Why might you need an X-ray?

An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging tool that produces detailed pictures of the inside of your body, helping doctors clearly view structures they can’t see during a routine exam. Your doctor may order an X-ray for several reasons:

To check for fractures or broken bones

After a fall or injury, an X-ray reveals whether a bone is fractured or broken, offering a clear diagnosis.

To evaluate joint or spine problems

Conditions like arthritis, dislocations, or spinal degeneration are easier to assess with the help of X-ray images.

To assess lung health

Persistent symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain often prompt a chest X-ray to look for pneumonia or other lung issues.

To locate foreign objects

If you’ve swallowed something or have a foreign object embedded in your body, an X-ray can pinpoint its exact location, aiding in safe removal.

X-rays provide crucial information, allowing your doctor to develop an effective treatment plan based on clear, accurate images.

What happens during an X-ray

Getting an X-ray is straightforward and usually takes just a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:

Step 1: Preparation

Make sure to remove any jewelry or metal items, like belts or clothing with zippers. Metal can interfere with the image. You may be given a lead apron to protect parts of your body from radiation.

Step 2: Positioning

A technician helps you get into the right position — depending on what we need to scan, you may stand, sit, or lie down. They’ll adjust your body to capture the clearest image possible and may take images from multiple angles.

Step 3: Scan

The X-ray machine directs a small amount of radiation through the targeted area. You need to hold still for a few seconds while the machine takes the image. Staying still helps ensure a clear, accurate result.

Step 4: Results

Once the images are taken, your doctor reviews them. They discuss the findings with you and talk about any next steps or follow-up care.

Are X-rays safe?

The amount of radiation used is minimal and targeted. In most cases, the benefits of accurate diagnosis far outweigh any potential risks. If you’re concerned about radiation exposure, talk to our team. They can explain safety measures and whether alternative imaging options might be appropriate.

If you have an accident or injury that warrants an X-ray, don’t wait to seek help. When you need urgent care, you can walk into our clinic for prompt treatment. For your primary health care needs, you can also call Peaks Medical and Urgent Care or request an appointment online.