When to Get an X-Ray: Common Injuries and Conditions Explained
Pain sometimes happens suddenly, or sometimes it develops slowly over time and you start to worry about it. Maybe you slipped, or maybe you twisted your foot the wrong way, and now the pain doesn’t stop. In these moments an X-ray can be one of the most helpful things you can do to understand what is going on.
At Brentview Urgent Care, we offer X-Ray services in Los Angeles, West Hollywood and Brentwood. Providing accurate and dependable imaging for your whole family. We work hard to make sure every visit is fast, comfortable and educational, so that you can go home feeling better and with clear answers.
Why You Might Need an X-Ray
An X-ray is a simple test, it uses a very small amount of radiation to show images of bones and internal structures inside the body. These pictures help medical professionals look for fractures, dislocations, infections, arthritis or other conditions that are not visible from the outside of the body.
At Brentview Urgent Care, we utilize digital technology to make images clear and precise in just a few minutes. Because the scans are digital your provider can see them right away, diagnose faster, and start a treatment plan if needed, all during the same appointment.
Situations Where an X-Ray May Be Recommended
There are many different injuries and problems where an X-ray can be helpful. Some examples include:
- Fractures and Broken Bones: After a fall or collision to see if a bone is cracked.
- Joint Pain: If you feel stiffness or swelling in a joint such as the knee or shoulder.
- Back or Neck Pain: Sometimes after a car accident or even lifting something heavy.
- Chest Pain: Your doctor might order a chest X-ray to check lungs or heart area.
- Ongoing Pain: That does not go away with rest after a few days.
These are all situations where having an X-ray can give information that you cannot get otherwise.
A Simple and Safe Process
If you have never had an X-ray before, do not worry, the procedure is simple and painless. It usually takes about fifteen minutes or even less.
Here is what usually happens:
- Positioning: You will either sit, stand or lie down depending on what part of the body needs to be scanned.
- Imaging: A certified technologist will help you get in the right position then walk behind a protection screen and take the picture.
- Completion: The scan takes a few seconds only and you will feel nothing at all.
Our Los Angeles X-rays utilize the latest computerized machines that have been developed with the least radiation possible. The amount of radiation you get from one X-ray is very small, about the same as what you would receive from normal daily environmental exposure spread over a few days.
When to Get Checked Immediately
If pain becomes severe or there is swelling that looks unusual it is a good idea to come in for an X-ray as soon as possible. Visible deformity, numbness, or inability to move a limb normally can mean something more serious that should be looked at quickly.
Our X-rays services in Los Angeles are available without an appointment so you can be seen right away when you need to.
Safe for Everyone
Our digital equipment is safe for children and adults. Each image is taken by trained technologists who follow safety rules and use protective shields when needed. Pregnant patients should tell the staff before the scan so special care can be used.
Convenience and Location
Brentview Urgent Care offers X-Ray services in West Hollywood and Brentwood so patients can get imaging close to home or work. No referral is required. Most visits are completed within an hour including the scan and the results. Our clinics use modern equipment and professional staff who provide efficient and accurate service for all ages.
Visit Brentview Today
If you are experiencing pain or injury and think you may need an X-ray, visit Brentview Urgent Care for a quick and comfortable experience. We offer X-rays services in Los Angeles, West Hollywood and Brentwood with fast results and affordable pricing for everyone. Our goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible and to provide the answers you need to move forward.