X-ray Services in San Francisco, CA
Our X-ray services at Presidio Pain Relief, led by Dr. Robert Savala MD offer quick and precise imaging for accurate diagnosis. With state-of-the-art technology, we ensure optimal results for effective treatment planning.
For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109.
What is an X-ray?
Presidio Pain Relief utilizes advanced X-ray technology as a crucial tool in our diagnostic services. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that allows us to view the body's internal structures, providing invaluable insights for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Our state-of-the-art X-ray imaging is instrumental in diagnosing a variety of conditions. For instance, we frequently use X-rays to assess bone fractures, monitor the progression of arthritis, and evaluate dental issues. In our practice, X-rays also play a vital role in detecting lung infections, identifying heart conditions, and screening for certain types of cancer.
The procedure is quick, safe, and painless, typically completed in just a few minutes. Our skilled technicians ensure patient comfort and optimal image quality by carefully positioning the X-ray machine while you remain still. We prioritize safety by using the lowest radiation dose necessary and providing protective lead aprons to shield areas not being imaged.
Choosing Presidio Pain Relief means trusting a team committed to leveraging the latest in medical imaging technology to support your health and well-being. Our use of X-ray technology is just one example of our dedication to providing thorough and informed healthcare solutions.
How does an X-ray work?
At Presidio Pain Relief, we utilize X-ray technology as a cornerstone of our diagnostic services, providing our patients with accurate and timely assessments of their health conditions. X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, have the remarkable ability to penetrate the human body, offering detailed insights into internal structures. This capability makes them indispensable for diagnosing a wide range of medical issues.
Our clinic is equipped with advanced X-ray machines that emit controlled bursts of radiation. During a session, our skilled radiographers position the patient between the X-ray source and a detector to ensure optimal imaging. By fine-tuning the machine's settings, we can customize the X-ray to suit specific diagnostic needs—whether it’s examining a potential fracture, evaluating joint health, or investigating abnormalities in soft tissues.
At Presidio Pain Relief, we are committed to staying at the forefront of medical imaging technology. Our use of digital radiography enhances image clarity and facilitates faster, more accurate diagnoses, enabling us to provide comprehensive care to our patients. This technology also allows us to store and share images efficiently, ensuring seamless communication within our medical team and with referring physicians.
Patient safety is our top priority. While X-rays are generally safe, we implement measures to minimize radiation exposure. We are particularly vigilant when it comes to vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women and children, employing protective gear like lead aprons to safeguard areas not being examined.
X-rays are a vital tool in our diagnostic arsenal at Presidio Pain Relief, providing a non-invasive way to explore the body's internal structures and guide our treatment plans. By understanding how X-rays work and the precautions we take, our patients can feel confident in the care they receive.
What conditions can X-rays help diagnose?
X-rays play a crucial role in pain management by helping to diagnose a wide range of conditions that can contribute to pain. These imaging techniques allow healthcare providers to view the internal structure of the body, identifying abnormalities that may cause discomfort or impair function. At Presidio Pain Relief, Dr. Robert Savala, MD, uses X-rays as a diagnostic tool to assess various conditions that affect bones, joints, and soft tissues.
One of the most common conditions X-rays can help diagnose is arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, which leads to joint pain and stiffness. X-rays can reveal the degree of joint degeneration, helping guide treatment options. For individuals experiencing back pain, X-rays can be crucial in diagnosing spinal conditions, including herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or spinal stenosis, all of which may contribute to chronic discomfort.
X-rays are also instrumental in detecting fractures or bone deformities. Whether due to trauma or stress fractures, clear X-ray images can show breaks in the bone structure, ensuring proper treatment. For patients with musculoskeletal pain, X-rays can help identify conditions such as scoliosis or bone infections that may lead to chronic discomfort.
In some cases, X-rays help in identifying soft tissue problems, such as calcifications or the presence of foreign objects, that may require further intervention. For patients at Presidio Pain Relief, X-rays provide vital insights into the underlying causes of pain, enabling Dr. Savala and his team to develop personalized treatment plans for effective pain management and improved quality of life.
Are X-rays safe?
At Presidio Pain Relief, we prioritize patient safety while utilizing X-rays, a vital diagnostic tool that allows us to visualize internal structures without invasive procedures. X-rays are particularly effective for examining bones, assessing fractures, and diagnosing conditions like pneumonia or certain cancers. Despite using ionizing radiation, our strict adherence to safety regulations ensures that patient health is protected.
The radiation dose from an X-ray varies based on the exam type, the body area imaged, and the equipment used. Typically, our X-rays expose patients to a minimal radiation dose, generally below 5 milliSieverts (mSv), which is significantly lower than the average annual exposure from natural sources (approximately 2.4 mSv). While repeated exposure increases the risk of radiation-related effects, such as cellular damage or long-term cancer development, the risk from a single X-ray is very low for most patients.
At Presidio Pain Relief, X-rays are a crucial component of our diagnostic capabilities, providing essential insights that guide effective treatment. We are committed to using X-rays judiciously, balancing the small associated risks with their significant diagnostic benefits. If you have any concerns about X-ray procedures, our healthcare providers are available to discuss your specific health needs and ensure you receive personalized and safe care.
For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109. We serve patients from Daly City CA, Sunset District CA, Bernal Heights CA, Bayview CA, Mission District CA, and surrounding areas.
