

Injection of a contrast dye into the ankle to enable the doctor to better see the joint on X-ray.

Used to diagnose osteoporosis by using a small amount of radiation to determine the density, or thickness, of bone in the spine and other areas of the body.Īfter injection of radioactive dye, the doctor performs a CT scan, which shows tears, scars or changes in the discs in the back.Ĭombines the use of an X-ray and a fluorescent screen to show the internal structures and movements of the foot. There are times when more specialized imaging tests may be required – especially when diagnosing osteoporosis or for back or foot problems. Uses a strong magnet linked to a computer to create a detailed image of a cross section of the body providing clear, detailed images of bones and the soft-tissue structures, such as the muscles, cartilage, ligaments, discs, tendons and blood vessels.Īfter injection of a small amount of radioactive dye, a special camera is used to scan the area to detect an increase in blood flow and bone-forming cell activity, which could indicate a tumor, infection or fracture.ĭual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA) These tests are often used in the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory arthritis, degenerative arthritis, fibromyalgia and other pain conditions, back pain and musculoskeletal conditions.Ī form of electromagnetic radiation is passed through the hip to create a two-dimensional picture of the bones.Ĭomputerized axial tomography (CAT or CT) scanĬombines X-ray equipment with computers to record two-dimensional images of your body and, in some cases, three-dimensional images, showing soft tissues such as ligaments and muscles more clearly than traditional X-rays.
