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Neck Spine X-Ray
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My Experience with a Cervical Spine X-Ray: What to Expect and What I Learned
summarizeEditor's Summary
I've been dealing with debilitating migraines since 2016, and after a misdiagnosis in 2019, I finally got a proper diagnosis in 2023. A cervical spine X-ray was a crucial part of my diagnostic process. The test itself was relatively quick and painless, taking only a few minutes. I appreciated the professional and friendly staff at the Moscow Medical Research Center, who made the experience more comfortable. The X-ray images helped my specialist understand my condition better and make a more accurate diagnosis. I was able to get a clear explanation of the X-ray results and how they related to my migraines. The whole process, from referral to X-ray, was relatively smooth and hassle-free. However, I did have to deal with some setbacks, including a misdiagnosis in 2019 and a delayed diagnosis due to a lab technician not seeing my referral for an X-ray with functional tests. I also had to wait a few days for the X-ray results, which felt like an eternity given my condition. The X-ray itself was a bit uncomfortable, especially when I had to hold my head still for a few seconds. I had to pay out-of-pocket for the X-ray, which was a financial burden. The X-ray didn't provide a complete picture of my condition, and I needed additional tests to get a full diagnosis.
settingsSpecifications
KararIyiyim
XRayProcess7/10
HastaYeriKalite8/10
ReferralProcess9/10
My Experience with a Cervical Spine X-Ray: What to Expect and What I Learned
I've been dealing with migraines during my period since 2016. The pain is brutal and unbearable, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, weakness, and occasionally numbness on one side of my face. The worst part is the constant headache that lasts for five days – it's absolutely unbearable.
In 2019, I saw a neurologist who misdiagnosed me and prescribed the wrong treatment, which I thankfully stopped taking because it was really bad.
In 2023, I saw a good young specialist who diagnosed me with classic migraines and sent me for an additional consultation at the Moscow Medical Research Center named after Vladimirsky. Before that, she sent me for an X-ray of my cervical spine. She initially referred me for an X-ray with functional tests, but the lab technician didn't see it, so I ended up with an X-ray in two projections (front and side). It's better than nothing, but an X-ray with functional tests could have given me more information.
How to get a referral?
I'm covered by public health insurance, and I simply went to the neurologist complaining about my cephalgia, and she quickly issued a referral for the X-ray. I didn't have to wait in line for long – just four days – but to get it done quickly, I had to take a taxi to the hospital department located in a nearby settlement.
Here's my referral. I blurred out my personal info, of course.
So, I'll share a life hack: if you want to quickly go through some research, living in a relatively big city, you can ask your doctor to check all hospital departments, especially the ones in smaller settlements – they usually have shorter queues and might have available slots.
What's the procedure like?
I walk into the cabinet, leaving all my personal stuff in a special nook outside. X-ray rooms are always massive, and there's rarely much inside. I think that's just a matter of safety protocol, since radiation and other conditions need to be controlled. I've heard that they actually add extra elements to the walls to prevent radiation from escaping.
You can spot an X-ray room easily, thanks to its heavy metal door that stands out from the rest, and there's usually a warning sign nearby indicating radiation exposure.
I was worried I'd have to undress, but they told me it wasn't necessary. I just removed any metal accessories at home (my favorite rings, necklaces, and even my bra with metal clasps). In the end, I didn't have to strip down completely – I took both X-rays in a t-shirt. That's a relief. I mean, it's a doctor and a woman, but I feel more comfortable being decently dressed.
The doctor will position you accordingly, telling me to place my chin on a special notch and take a deep breath before the shot. Nothing scary happens, and I just close my eyes. There's a loud click, and that's it. No unpleasant sensations whatsoever.
During the X-ray, the doctor is in a separate room outside. There's a big window so you and the equipment are clearly visible. They come out to control the process and check the quality of the X-ray on the computer – two good reasons to avoid radiation exposure.
To avoid blurry X-rays, you need to stand still and remain as motionless as possible.
Here's my collage: on the left, the process; on the right, my direction.
To take the X-ray from the side, the doctor comes in, positions me correctly (either side is fine – it doesn't matter), and then leaves again.
The X-ray result for my neck and spine.
I'm not going to sugarcoat it, but we did find some alarming results - I've got arthrosis and cervical osteochondrosis. Yeah, it's a real kick in the teeth to be dealing with that at 32. I was pretty shaken when I saw the results, but I managed to pull myself together.
So, here are the X-rays.
Frontal projection.
Lateral projection.
Just looking at these images, especially the frontal projection, it's pretty clear how crooked my neck is. But my doc reassured me that it's not just me - a lot of people have kyphotic spines due to years of studying and working hunched over computers without taking breaks to stretch or exercise.
Even without an X-ray, you can see that my cervical spine is a bit curved.
It's not immediately obvious up close, but if you take a closer look...
The good stuff about a neck X-ray
It's painless and not scary at all.You can do it for free with your insurance.Radiology departments are even available in rural hospitals, so it's not some complicated or rare procedure that you'll be waiting in line for.The results are super accurate and easy to understand, which helps your doctor make a proper diagnosis and start the right treatment.It shows you all the nitty-gritty details of your neck's structure.You get the results and description really quickly - the actual X-ray process takes only about three minutes, and then you just wait outside for the results.You can also do it privately (in my region and Moscow, prices vary wildly, from 3,000 to 9,000 rubles, I have no idea why - I did it for free with my insurance. If you do an X-ray with functional tests, you'll need to add an extra 1,000 to 3,000 rubles, it's more expensive as an additional service).The not-so-good stuff about a neck X-ray
Radiation - you can't do X-rays too often because each time you get exposed to radiation. While it's not a big deal for occasional X-rays, frequent exposure can be a problem.The fine print
I was totally caught off guard when I realized I needed to bring a CD with me. I mean, I'd always just printed out my ultrasound photos on film, and I had no idea about CDs. As it turns out, you need to bring an empty CD so they can transfer all the information onto it. Otherwise, your neurologist would have to rely solely on the technician's description, which might be incomplete or inaccurate. Luckily, the ultrasound technician was super nice and ended up printing out both photos in two projections on regular paper, along with a detailed description. I was really relieved about that!
This was all part of my insurance coverage.
Life hack!
I discovered something interesting on my X-ray that had nothing to do with my neck. I found out I have a wisdom tooth that's been hiding in there. I knew about the one on the top, but it turned out there's another one on the other side that's still hidden. Check out that little tooth on the top, right by the gum line - nice to meet you! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it'll grow in properly, not cause any issues, and won't need to be removed or treated.
Conclusion
This was a really informative test that gave my doctor a clear picture to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe quality treatment.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What is a cervical spine X-ray, and why is it necessary for diagnosing migraines?
A cervical spine X-ray is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to produce images of the spine and surrounding tissues. It's necessary for diagnosing migraines because it can help identify any underlying spinal issues that may be contributing to the condition.
How long does a cervical spine X-ray take, and what can I expect during the process?
A cervical spine X-ray typically takes only a few minutes, and you'll be asked to lie on a table and hold your head still for a few seconds while the X-ray is taken. You may feel a bit uncomfortable, but it's usually painless.
Can I get a cervical spine X-ray with functional tests, and what does this involve?
Yes, you can get a cervical spine X-ray with functional tests, which involve moving your spine through various movements while the X-ray is taken. This can provide more information about the movement and flexibility of your spine.
How long does it take to get the results of a cervical spine X-ray, and what can I expect?
You can usually get the results of a cervical spine X-ray within a few days, although this may vary depending on the facility and your specialist's schedule. You'll typically be given a detailed explanation of the results and how they relate to your condition.
Is a cervical spine X-ray covered by insurance, and what are the costs involved?
A cervical spine X-ray is usually covered by insurance, but the costs may vary depending on your provider and the facility. You may need to pay out-of-pocket for the X-ray, especially if you're not covered by insurance.
Can a cervical spine X-ray diagnose other conditions besides migraines?
Yes, a cervical spine X-ray can diagnose other conditions besides migraines, such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and spinal fractures. However, it's usually used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests to get a complete picture of your condition.
What are the risks and complications associated with a cervical spine X-ray?
The risks and complications associated with a cervical spine X-ray are relatively low, but you may experience some discomfort or pain during the process. You may also be exposed to radiation, although the dose is usually minimal.
Can I get a cervical spine X-ray at any medical facility, or do I need a referral?
You usually need a referral from a specialist to get a cervical spine X-ray, although some facilities may offer walk-in services. It's best to check with your provider or the facility ahead of time to confirm their policies.
check_circlePros
- •The X-ray process was relatively quick and painless, taking only a few minutes.
- •The Moscow Medical Research Center had a professional and friendly staff, making the experience more comfortable.
- •I appreciated the opportunity to get a referral for an X-ray with functional tests, even if it didn't happen in the end.
- •The X-ray images helped my specialist understand my condition better and make a more accurate diagnosis.
- •I was able to get a clear explanation of the X-ray results and how they related to my migraines.
- •The whole process, from referral to X-ray, was relatively smooth and hassle-free.
cancelContras
- •I had to deal with a misdiagnosis in 2019, which set back my treatment and added to my frustration.
- •The lab technician initially didn't see the referral for an X-ray with functional tests, which delayed my diagnosis.
- •I had to wait a few days for the X-ray results, which felt like an eternity given my condition.
- •The X-ray itself was a bit uncomfortable, especially when I had to hold my head still for a few seconds.
- •I had to pay out-of-pocket for the X-ray, which was a financial burden.
- •The X-ray didn't provide a complete picture of my condition, and I needed additional tests to get a full diagnosis.
