We all know that X-rays are helpful medical tools, but because they are a form of radiation, are they safe to get?

Our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team explains the purpose and other facts you need to know about X-rays below.

What Does an X-ray Do?

An X-ray is a common imaging test that’s been used for decades, and it helps your doctor view the inside of your body without having to make an incision. This can help your doctor diagnose, monitor and treat all sorts of medical conditions.

When the body undergoes an X-ray, different parts of the body allow varying amounts of the X-ray beams to pass through. Soft tissues, like muscles and ligaments, allow more X-ray beams to pass through, so they show up as dark gray on the screen. Bones and tumors let fewer X-ray beams pass through, so they will appear white.

Reasons to Consider Getting an X-ray

• Inability to walk four steps (twisted ankle)
• Joint immobility
• Pain directly around the bone area
• Swelling that doesn’t reduce with treatment

Is It Risky to Get an X-ray?

Generally, no. While X-rays are a form of radiation, a common bone X-ray emits radiation that is equal to about one week of natural radiation from the sun. Plus, because X-rays are one of the oldest and most common forms of medical imaging, doctors say the benefit of making the correct diagnosis outweighs any potential risk that an X-ray may have.

We understand if you are still wary of getting an X-ray, however, so we’ve listed a few ways you can exercise caution below.

Ways to Exercise Caution

• Talk with your healthcare provider if you are worried that you have received too many X-ray tests.
• Only allow X-rays, fluoroscopy or CT scans when there is a clear health benefit for you.
• Only X-ray the area needed.
• Use shielding when possible, especially for very sensitive areas, such as the thyroid gland and genitals.

Injuries and other medical complications happen! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Memphis center if you or your child need an X-ray.