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3 Uses For A Walk-In X-Ray Machine

4 January 2021 by Joann Dunn

Many common illnesses and conditions can be diagnosed through a simple physical exam. Doctors can listen to a person's chest with a stethoscope, palpate sore areas, consider reported symptoms, and make a diagnosis. However, some ailments are more complex and require additional tests. X-rays can help doctors find illnesses and injuries that can't be seen with the naked eye. Here are three important uses for walk-in x-ray machines:

1. Diagnose bone fractures.

Joint and muscle pain can occur gradually, as in the case of overuse injuries. These types of pain can also have a rapid onset, especially if an injury occurs. When you experience pain in a part of your body, doctors often recommend resting and performing self-care at home. Many instances of pain can be relieved through elevation, compression, and the application of heat and ice.

When your pain doesn't lessen after a few days, there might be an underlying problem. Bone fractures can cause moderate to severe pain that may limit your range of motion. A walk-in x-ray scanner can take images of your affected body part. Urgent care clinics can make use of walk-in scanners to quickly and easily diagnose patients who suspect they may have broken bones.

2. Contain the spread of COVID-19.

People with respiratory infections sometimes need to undergo x-rays. Chest x-rays can help doctors see the extent of a person's congestion. It can also give an indication of overall lung function. Traditionally, x-rays are performed by a technician who must carefully position the x-ray machine and patient for clear images. Walk-in x-ray machines allow technicians to keep a distance from patients with COVID-19, which can reduce the spread of this dangerous illness.

3. Diagnose kidney stones.

Kidney stones occur when the minerals in your urine form clumps inside your bladder. People with high concentrations of uric acid in their bodies may be more likely to get kidney stones. Kidney stones can lead to cramping, severe pain, and blood in the urine. These stones typically need to be passed naturally, but in some cases, large kidney stones will need to be broken up through medical intervention.

A walk-in x-ray scanner can find kidney stones in your body. Based on the size of your kidney stones, your doctor can make a treatment recommendation. Ultrasound treatment can help people with urinary tract blockages due to kidney stones. People with smaller kidney stones may be prescribed painkillers and sent home to pass the stones on their own.

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