Are Spinal X-Rays Safe? What the Research Shows
Many patients ask whether spinal X-rays are safe, especially when imaging is recommended more than once. Concerns about radiation are understandable, but modern research shows that the low doses...
Many patients ask whether spinal X-rays are safe, especially when imaging is recommended more than once. Concerns about radiation are understandable, but modern research shows that the low doses used in diagnostic imaging are extremely small and well within safe ranges.
Two important scientific papers help clarify this topic and explain why X-rays remain one of the most valuable tools in evaluating spinal health.
Research reviewing scoliosis patients found that spinal radiographs remain the gold standard for diagnosing and monitoring spinal curvature, because they allow physicians to directly measure the Cobb angle, evaluate vertebral rotation, and assess structural changes in the spine.
Patients with scoliosis may receive multiple X-rays throughout growth to monitor curve progression. Even with repeated imaging, the total radiation exposure typically ranges between 10 and 25 milligray (mGy), with extreme cases reaching around 50 mGy.
For context, radiation levels associated with increased leukemia risk are estimated to begin around 1100 mGy, meaning the radiation from spinal X-rays is far below levels known to cause harm.
Additional research in radiation biology also challenges the commonly held belief that any amount of radiation is dangerous. Studies show that the body has powerful protective systems including DNA repair mechanisms, immune responses, and cellular cleanup processes that repair or remove damaged cells after low-dose radiation exposure.
Because of this, there is no convincing evidence of increased cancer risk in humans exposed to low radiation doses below approximately 100 mGy, which is still far above the exposure levels associated with diagnostic X-rays.
Why Chiropractors Use X-Rays
At Lake Nona Chiropractic, spinal X-rays allow us to evaluate the spine from a biomechanical perspective.
Imaging helps us understand how the spine is functioning structurally, including:
- Spinal alignment
- Disc spacing
- Vertebral rotation
- Degenerative changes
- Structural abnormalities
This information helps guide more precise and personalized care.
When X-Rays Are Especially Important
Spinal imaging can be particularly valuable for patients with:
X-rays allow us to measure spinal curvature using the Cobb angle and monitor progression over time.
Auto Accident Injuries
Patients involved in car accidents often experience ligament injuries or changes in spinal alignment that cannot be detected through physical examination alone.
Chronic Neck or Back Pain
Imaging can help identify structural changes in the spine that may be contributing to ongoing pain or dysfunction.
Are Chiropractic X-Rays Safe?
Based on current scientific evidence, the radiation exposure from spinal X-rays is very low and well within safe limits.
At the same time, imaging provides important diagnostic information that helps guide effective treatment and monitor spinal health over time.
Avoiding necessary imaging due to exaggerated radiation fears may actually prevent doctors from identifying structural problems that need attention.
Read the Full Article
This page provides a brief overview of the research. I recently published a much more detailed article explaining the science behind diagnostic radiation and spinal imaging.
You can read the full article at my substack here
Frank Berzanskis Jr.
Doctor of Chiropractic
Trauma Qualified through Cleveland University, Kansas City
ScoliBrace Certified
ScoliBalance Certified
Results vary from person to person. Nothing in this article constitutes medical advice or a guarantee of outcome. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific condition.
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