Diagnostic Testing

HEALTHPOINTE provides the full range of diagnostic testing, including x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography (EMG) and computed axial tomography (CT). All testing procedures are performed by highly experienced and certified technicians. One or more of these tests may be ordered by your physician as a way to help diagnose and treat your medical condition.

X-ray

For the sake of convenience, safety and time, HEALTHPOINTE centers have state-of-the-art x-ray equipment staffed by certified radiologic technicians. X-rays provide immediate access to critical diagnostic information, and it is likely that your physician will order them in the event of an injury.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is an advanced diagnostic procedure that makes detailed images of internal body structures without the use of x-rays or any other form of radiation. MRIs provide an unparalleled view inside the human body. It is the method of choice for the diagnosis of many types of injuries and conditions because of the ability to tailor the exam to the particular medical question being asked.

MRI images are created through the use of a large and powerful magnet, radio waves, and a computer. The imaging exam will produce many cross-sectional images of the area of the body being studied. High resolution capability yields very fine detail of internal structures such as the spine, joints, brain, and other vital organs. MRI technology enables physicians to detect diseases or abnormalities in the early stages of development.

Like x-rays, MRIs are painless, and you may return to your regular activities immediately afterwards.

EMG

Electromyography, or EMG, is a diagnostic examination of nerve and muscle function. Your doctor may arrange this test to assist in establishing a diagnosis and plan treatment. The EMG examination includes (1) nerve conduction studies and (2) muscle testing.

Nerve conduction studies are performed by placing discs on the skin and then recording your responses to electrical stimulation of the nerves. The nerves are stimulated with mild electrical impulses that create a sensation in the fingers much like you experience when you hit your elbow on a desk. EMG measures the speed of electrical signals as they travel down the nerves. How fast the muscle responds gives the doctor information about how the nerve is working.

Muscle testing involves direct recording of muscle activity, both at rest and during contraction, by inserting a small needle into the muscles. You will feel a pinprick when the needle is inserted and sometimes a mild, dull ache while the needle is in place. No electrical shocks are given.

These tests diagnose pinched nerves, ruptured discs, carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, tarsal tunnel, and muscle diseases. More uncommon disorders such as myasthenia gravis (which causes weakness), muscular dystrophy (which causes muscle to waste away), or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), are also diagnosed by EMG and NCV (nerve conduction velocity) studies.

The EMG examination takes about 30 minutes. It is safe and involves only minor discomfort. Following EMG testing, there may be brief tenderness or soreness in muscles for a few hours. There are no aftereffects, and you may return to your usual activities upon leaving the EMG testing.

CT Scans

Computed tomography, or CT scanning, combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple cross-sectional images of the area of the body being studied. CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity and reveal more details than regular x-ray exams. For this reason, they are commonly used to help diagnosis complex medical conditions. CT scans are particularly useful for diagnosing cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and musculoskeletal disorders.

The CT scanner is typically a large, box like machine with a hole, or short tunnel, in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides into and out of this tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors will take many pictures of the area being treated. Though the scanning itself causes no pain, there may be some discomfort from having to remain still for several minutes. Sometimes you will be given contrast material to help delineate the internal structures in your body that are being imaged. The contrast material is liquid, and you will be asked to drink it, or it will be given to you intravenously.