This video--Understanding X-rays of the Cervical Spine--is designed for the practitioner who has access to x-rays for diagnosis of neck pain and neck disorders (See the anatomy section for the anatomy of the cervical spine). Cervical X-rays can deliver so much information in so few films. One can look at the health of the discs, uncovertebral joints, facets, nerve root foramen, alignment, spinal canal diameter, and even the occiput-C2 joint complex. This test is the only real way to determine how gravity affects the spine (MRIs and CT scans are performed lying down and the stand-up MRIs are of poor quality). Flexion and extension views add to the knowledge of motion of the spine and oblique films can identify bone spurs in the foramen.
Dr. Donald Corenman offers MRI tests for patients with spinal conditions and disorders. For additional resources relating to the cervical spine, please contact Dr. Corenman at his Vail, Colorado spine clinic at 970-479-5895.
