Objective: The objectives of this study were (i) to report on the reasons students gave for ordering x-ray imaging at a chiropractic college outpatient clinic; (ii) to review radiographic findings on the x-rays ordered; (iii) determine if there was an association between the 2 and (iv) determine if there was an association of the findings to 3 age groups.
Methods: Students in a chiropractic college clinic were asked to complete a form which included age and the reasons the radiographs had been requested. The findings on these radiographs were determined and the common findings (those findings that occurred in 10 or more percent of the cases which the authors felt was an occurrence frequency that would represent a common occurrence) were analyzed for significant associations to age and common reasons for requesting the radiographs (those reasons that were given in 10 or more percent of the cases) for seeking imaging.
Results: Common reasons for requesting imaging were significantly associated with common specific radiographic findings. Older age groups were significantly associated with more common findings. The youngest age group was significantly less likely to be associated with common findings.
Conclusion: Common reasons for requesting radiographs were associated with common radiographic findings. Age has a significant effect on the frequency of findings. Author keywords: Radiographic Findings; Diagnostic X-Ray Imaging; Spine; Chiropractic; Radiography Guidelines
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