The Role of Imaging in Diagnosing Car Accident Injuries in Kansas City

When you've been involved in a car accident, especially in Kansas City, imaging plays a crucial role in identifying the severity of your injuries. Whether it's an MRI, CT scan, or x-ray, these tools help doctors diagnose conditions that may not be immediately obvious from physical exams.

Lance Stevenson, DC

5/2/20251 min read

Why Imaging is Critical After a Car Accident: he Role of Imaging in Diagnosing Car Accident Injuries in Kansas City

Types of Imaging Used After Car Accidents:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans use magnetic fields to create detailed images of the soft tissues in your body. After a car accident, MRIs can reveal damage to the brain, spinal cord, discs, and ligaments.

  • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): CT scans combine X-ray images taken from multiple angles to provide detailed images of bones and soft tissues. They are often used to detect fractures and internal bleeding.

  • DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging): DTI is a form of MRI that tracks the movement of water molecules within the brain. This imaging method is valuable for identifying microstructural damage to brain tissue, especially after concussions and TBIs.

How Imaging Assists in Healing: Having a clear diagnosis allows doctors to create an effective treatment plan. For example, spinal misalignments or herniated discs can be treated with chiropractic care, while traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may require more specialized care such as vestibular therapy and concussion rehabilitation.

Chiropractic Treatment and Imaging:

  • Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic care helps realign the spine and alleviate pressure on nerves, especially after misalignments are identified through imaging.

  • Therapeutic Exercises: Based on imaging findings, rehabilitation programs can target specific areas of the body that need strengthening or stabilization.

  • Post-Treatment Imaging: Imaging can be used after treatment to assess progress and ensure the healing process is on track.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes only. For specific details regarding your injury and treatment options, please consult your healthcare provider and insurance.