Herniated Disc X-Ray

Herniated disc x-ray films are not an accurate way to diagnose any disc condition or any soft tissue condition, in general. X-rays are used to image bones and do not detail soft anatomical structures. While x-rays are useful in determining that a disc condition exists, it is virtually impossible to determine the exact nature of the disc problem without a more comprehensive test, such as an MRI.

Herniated Disc X-Ray Diagnosis

Everyday, I get letters from patients who say that they were diagnosed with a herniated disc and possibly even a pinched nerve by a doctor who took x-rays. It never ceases to amaze me. X-rays will show a loss of intervertebral disc space, but will usually not be able to determine the cause of the missing disc tissue. There are many reasons for this to occur, ranging from a herniated disc to a ruptured disc.

Degenerative disc disease might also be the cause. Normal spinal degeneration or a congenital, genetic or developmental disc abnormality might also exist in the spine. None of these conditions will be recognizable from an x-ray. The only thing which will be noticed is a lack of disc space, with the vertebral bones closer together than would normally occur…

Herniated Disc X-Ray Advice

Even though there is a lack of intervertebral disc space noted at a vertebral level, there is no inherent need for concern. Normal spinal degeneration causes this to occur in virtually every human and is especially prevalent in the lower lumbar and cervical spinal regions. X-rays can not determine which condition is causing this to occur, but will provide the doctor with a reason to order a more detailed test, such as an MRI or CT scan, to better visualize the affected spinal levels. Do not allow any doctor or chiropractor to diagnose a specific disc condition simply based upon x-ray studies. Insist on a better diagnostic tool or find a different doctor who will grant your request for a more comprehensive imaging exam.

Herniated Disc X-Ray to Herniated Disc Home
7/5/08 Revised 12/5/09