It is not always necessary to have an x-ray or MRI following an injury. If you have had an accident or trauma you may be advised to present for x-ray. Breaks or fractures are painful and you can usually feel the area where the break may be. Broken bones often result in bad bruising, swelling or may look out of place.
If you have unnatural and painful movement you may have a broken bone. Outside of the obvious fracture, it is not always immediately clear whether you need an x-ray or not. MRIs or scans should only be considered if you have had clear advice from your physiotherapist or doctor, to go down this road. They can be costly and waiting times can be long. It is important not to miss out on other rehabilitation in the meantime, which could have lasting positive impact.
You do not necessarily need an x-ray before seeing your physiotherapist. Often a course of physiotherapy will have a real impact on your recovery. At Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, our expert staff will advise you if your injury requires any further investigation.