If you have had an injury or are experiencing unexplained or chronic pain, a prompt, accurate diagnosis is essential. Your doctor may order diagnostic imaging to help determine the cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan. After you receive a doctor’s order, visit an imaging center, like American Health Imaging.
Types of Imaging
Based on the type of pain you have and its location, your doctor will choose the imaging technology that best helps make an accurate diagnosis. Different types of scans are used to examine various parts of the body, including joints, organs, and muscles. Imaging techniques include:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans create cross-sectional images inside the body using specialized X-rays. Doctors use CT scans to view bones, muscles, organs, blood vessels, blood clots and tumors. In addition to diagnosing injuries and diseases, this imaging technique can help doctors determine the stage of cancer and assess the effectiveness of treatments.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) creates detailed pictures using radio waves and magnets. MRI scans provide clear images of soft tissues, helping doctors evaluate issues involving blood vessels, the brain, the heart, the breasts, and the abdomen. They can also help your doctor determine the extent of arthritis and injuries in the spine and confirm if surgery will be effective for knee injuries.
- Digital X-rays use sensors instead of traditional film and require less radiation than conventional X-rays. Doctors most frequently use X-rays to view bones and evaluate fractures; however, they also use them to examine internal organs in some instances.
- Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce images called sonograms. Doctors order ultrasounds to diagnose conditions in the abdominal organs, including the liver and kidneys.
Medical Imaging at American Health Imaging
American Health Imaging offers leading-edge imaging technology performed by highly trained, board-certified technologists and then interpreted by radiologists. When you visit one of our many locations throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas, you will receive compassionate care and timely, precise results your doctor can rely on to make an accurate diagnosis.
Not only is imaging at American Health Imaging hassle-free, it’s also fast, convenient, and affordable. To accommodate busy schedules, same-day appointments are often available, as well as evening and weekend appointments. Costs are 40%–60% lower than those at hospitals for imaging services. American Health Imaging is also in-network with nearly every major health plan, offering financial assistance programs. In addition, the time and hassle of navigating a complex hospital are no longer necessary.
After receiving an order for diagnostic imaging from your doctor, don’t wait to request an appointment at an American Health Imaging location near you.