A spine X-ray is a scan that shows the bones and alignment of your spine.
Your doctor may request it for neck pain, back pain, injury, posture changes, or suspected arthritis. It is best for bones and alignment. It does not show nerves or slipped discs as clearly as MRI.
Common Indications for Spine X-Ray
- Neck or back pain after a fall or accident
- Persistent back pain
- Suspected spine fracture
- Scoliosis or posture changes
- Arthritis or wear in the spine
- Follow-up after spine surgery or treatment
What exactly does a spine X-ray show?
It shows the spine bones (vertebrae), spaces between them, and the curve or alignment of the spine. It can show fractures, arthritis changes, abnormal curves, and some bone problems.
How should I prepare for a spine X-ray?
You usually do not need to fast. Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the area being scanned. You may need to remove belts, jewelry, hooks, zips, or bras with metal parts.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
No. Keep taking your regular medication unless your referring doctor gives you different instructions.
What happens when I arrive for my scan?
You will check in, and the radiographer will confirm which part of your spine needs imaging. You may be asked to change into a gown.
How is the procedure performed?
You may stand, sit, or lie on the X-ray table depending on the part of the spine being checked. The radiographer will position you for front and side views. For a neck X-ray, you may be asked to open your mouth for one view.
How long does a spine X-ray take?
Most spine X-rays take about 10 to 15 minutes. It may take longer if several parts of the spine are being checked.
Is there any discomfort?
No. The X-ray itself is painless. If your back or neck is already painful, holding a position may be uncomfortable for a short time.
Are there risks?
A spine X-ray uses a small amount of radiation. No radiation stays in your body after the scan. The team keeps the number of images as low as possible while still answering the doctor's question.
Can children have this scan?
Yes. Children can have a spine X-ray when it is needed, such as for scoliosis or injury. The radiographer adjusts the technique for the child's size.
Can I have this scan if I am pregnant?
Pregnancy Precaution
Tell your doctor or radiographer if you are pregnant or think you might be. The dose to the pregnancy depends greatly on which part of the spine is imaged. The team may delay a non-urgent scan, change the views, or choose another test, but urgent clinically necessary imaging should not be withheld solely because of pregnancy.
When will I get my results?
A radiologist will review the images and send a report to your referring doctor. The timing depends on the centre and how urgent the request is.
What if the scan finds something?
Your referring doctor will explain the result with your symptoms and examination in mind. You may be treated, monitored, or sent for another scan if more detail is needed.
What can this X-ray miss?
A spine X-ray mainly shows bones and alignment. It does not show the spinal cord, discs, nerves, ligaments, or many subtle fractures well. Depending on the problem, CT or MRI may be needed even when the X-ray is normal.
Seek urgent assessment for new limb weakness or numbness, numbness around the groin, loss of bladder or bowel control, major trauma, or severe pain with fever or a history of cancer. Do not wait for a routine X-ray report in those situations.
Sources and further reading
Conclusion
A spine X-ray is a useful first test for bone injury, alignment, and some causes of back or neck pain. To make the visit smoother, tell the team exactly where the pain is and whether standing or lying flat is difficult.