fox-valley-imaging

What Breakthroughs in X-Ray Technology Are Shaping the Future of Medical Imaging?

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 09:50:30 GMT

What Are the Critical Steps for Successfully Implementing CT Protocols in Medical Imaging?

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:41:41 GMT

How Can Postmenopausal Women Safeguard Their Bone Health for Longevity?

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 10:18:29 GMT

How Has Ultrasound Technology Evolved to Diversify Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures?

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 05:15:44 GMT

How Do Magnetic Fields and Radio Waves Combine to Create MRI Images?

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:26:18 GMT

How Can You Optimize a Pediatric Echocardiography Experience for Both Child and Clinician?

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:06:31 GMT

What Are the Safeguards in Place to Ensure X-Rays Are Safe for All Patients?

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:15:58 GMT

What Are Essential Maintenance Practices to Keep a CT Scanner Operating Optimally?

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:30:22 GMT

How Can Optimal Bone Density Be Achieved in Children Through Lifestyle and Diet?

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 03:06:31 GMT

How Effective Is Ultrasound in the Early Detection and Diagnosis of Cancer?

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 21:19:55 GMT

How Do Insurance and Facility Fees Affect the Total Cost of an MRI Scan?

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:18:02 GMT

How Can Echocardiography Unveil the Hidden Dynamics of Heart Failure?

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:51:55 GMT

What Are the Essential Steps to Take Before Your X-Ray Appointment?

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:32:17 GMT

How Is Artificial Intelligence Ushering in a New Era of Computed Tomography Scans?

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:17:24 GMT

How Can Bone Density Scanning Predict and Manage the Risk of Osteoporosis?

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:25:47 GMT

How Can Doppler Ultrasound Techniques Optimize Vascular Diagnostics?

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 22:02:27 GMT

How Can MRI Quality Assurance Ensure Optimal Imaging and Patient Satisfaction?

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:13:56 GMT

How Can Echocardiography Provide Insight Into Cardiac Function and Potential Pathologies?

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:16:39 GMT

How Critical Are X-Rays in the Early Detection and Management of Cancer?

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 06:26:20 GMT

How Does the Choice of Contrast Agent Affect the Clarity of CT Scan Results?

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:20:15 GMT

How Can Bone Density Scanning Affect Your Health and Well-being?

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 01:27:22 GMT

Can Ultrasound Imaging Offer Precise Diagnostics in Soft Tissue Anomalies?

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:53:16 GMT

How Can MRI Image Analysis Tools Shape Diagnostic Precision in Medicine?

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 21:22:30 GMT

How Can Echocardiography Provide Detailed Heart Imaging Without Surgery?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 21:07:39 GMT

How Critical Are X-Rays in the Early Detection and Management of Cancer?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 02:04:02 GMT

How Crucial Is Computed Tomography in the Detection and Management of Internal Diseases?

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 02:19:47 GMT

How Accurate Are Bone Density Scans and What Factors Can Lead to Misdiagnosis?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 03:24:01 GMT

Can Routine Ultrasound Scans During Pregnancy Detect Birth Defects Without Risk?

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 02:15:57 GMT

How Can MRI Facility Design Enhance Patient Experience and Maintain High Safety Standards?

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 03:48:03 GMT

How Can Echocardiography Educators Effectively Train Students in Heart Imaging Techniques?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 01:36:54 GMT

How Can Patients Navigate the Complex Pricing of X-Ray Services?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 03:39:33 GMT

How Can the Risks Associated With CT Scans Be Mitigated for Patients?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 01:51:01 GMT

Can Lifestyle Changes and Treatments Enhance Your Bone Density Scan Outcomes?

Wed, 29 May 2024 03:38:58 GMT

Can Doppler Ultrasound Detect the Severity of Vascular Disorders in the Body?

Wed, 22 May 2024 03:48:09 GMT

Are There Any Risks Associated With MRI Scans for Certain Individuals?

Thu, 16 May 2024 01:42:49 GMT

Can Portable Echocardiography Machines Revolutionize Cardiac Care Accessibility?

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:05:41 GMT

How Can Different Types of Contrast Agents Impact X-Ray Diagnostic Accuracy?

Wed, 01 May 2024 13:15:00 GMT

How Can Computed Tomography Aid in the Fight Against Cancer

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Are Steroid Medications and Lifestyle Factors Triggering the Need for Bone Density Scans?

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 02:52:06 GMT

Are Steroid Medications and Lifestyle Factors Triggering the Need for Bone Density Scans?

Benefits of 3D MRI for Prostate Cancer

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 03:17:33 GMT

Benefits of 3D MRI for Prostate Cancer

3D MRI Prostate mapping is a new procedure which offers a number of improvements compared to the traditional TRUS (transrectal ultrasound) biopsy for people who have prostate cancer. TRUS guided biopsies have been the go-to way of diagnosing prostate malignancy for the last 20 years, but this procedure is quite invasive, and it is not very precise.

There is always the risk that an ultrasound will miss smaller tumors, because the soft tissues show up in low resolution on the scan. In addition, the grid approach used by the ultrasound will target the prostate gland’s peripheral aspects, and this means that they can miss 30-40 percent of the cancer – especially if it is in the anterior, midline or apex. There are also some risks associated with the number of needles used for this type of scan. The more needles that are used, the more accurate the scan, but also the greater the risk of infection and sexual or urinary side effects.

Why 3D MRI Scans Are Better

3D MRI prostate scans use Multi-Parametric MRI. There is no need to use an endorectal coil for the scan (unlike with older versions of the MRI technology), and the scan is far higher definition than an ultrasound. The procedure is non-invasive, and it allows for a detailed analysis of the entire prostate gland. This means that doctors can get a clear idea of how many tumors a patient has, and how aggressive the cancer is – potentially eliminating the need for a biopsy.

Because the 3D MRI scan is able to identify smaller tumors, it means that you get a more accurate diagnosis. In addition, you will be able to enjoy better treatment if you do need a biopsy, since the biopsy can be focused from the high resolution MRI.

The biopsy will target exactly the right tissue, so it is less invasive and healthy tissue will not be sampled. Side effects are rarer, and the risk of infections is reduced. The MRI biopsy will target only the tissue that is highly likely to contain cancer.

Unfortunately, prostate cancer cannot be diagnosed by MRI alone. The MRI can give an idea of blood flow, tissue density and other things which are indicators of a risk of cancer. There are certain characteristics of cancerous tissues which can be used to give doctors an idea of whether a tissue might be cancerous, but the tissue must be examined more closely to determine whether or not it is cancerous with more accuracy.

MRI-Guided biopsies help to ensure that the treatment you get matches the severity of the condition, and saves you from potential infections and long-lasting side effects. It reduces the risk of smaller cancerous areas (which are low risk, but could spread if the cells are aggressive), being missed.

When it comes to your health, it makes sense to not take any chances, and to arm yourself and your team of specialists with as much information as possible. Why use a 20-year-old technology, or the more invasive 1.5T MRI, which can be incredibly uncomfortable and may produce a distorted image because of the pressure of the coil on the prostate gland, when you can use the latest technologies and get a treatment which is accurate, produces fast results, and does so with minimum impact on your comfort.

Call your health insurance company today and ask them about 3D MRI Prostate scans. If you are at risk of prostate cancer or have been referred for diagnosis, this could be the perfect option for you.

More details are available on our page – Prostate Map Imaging

Heart Scans Help You Understand The Progression of Heart Disease

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 03:20:48 GMT

Heart Scans Help You Understand The Progression of Heart Disease

A lot of people are at risk of heart disease and do not even know it. The good news is that there are simple procedures which can help to identify people who are at risk of heart disease so that they can take precautions to reduce their risk, and get the medical care that they most need.

Heart scans give doctors a picture of your coronary arteries, that doctors can use to find calcium deposits, giving doctors advance warning of whether or not you are at risk of hear disease – before other symptoms show.

Who Should Have a Heart Scan

You should have a heart scan if you have symptoms of heart disease, or if you are in a high-risk group; for example is there is a history of heart disease in your family, or if you have high blood pressure or cholesterol.

Is a Heart Scan Safe?

Heart scans are not an invasive procedure. They involve using an x-ray to measure the amount of calcium in the walls of the person’s arteries.

Coronary artery disease is very serious, and one of the earliest signs of it is calcium deposits building up in the artery walls. These deposits are made up of cholesterol, fat and calcium. The cholesterol and fat is hard to detect, but the calcium will show up on a heart scan . If there is a lot of calcium your arteries, then this is a sign that you have large deposits.

The American College of Cardiology believes that a heart scan can act as an early warning sign, so that you know whether you need to take action to prevent a heart attack within the next three to five years. This is important for people who are over the age of 55 and those who have experienced chest pain.

The American College of Cardiology has found that both men and women who are told that they have a high calcium score (meaning they are at increased risk of a heart attack in the next ten years) are more likely to stick to lifestyle changes that will reduce their risk, compared with people who are given the lifestyle guidance, but who do not have a readout on a chart telling them, dispassionately, that they are ‘at risk’.

If you have a family history of heart disease, are a smoker, or have any other reason to be concerned about heart disease, talk to us today about getting a heart scan with your doctor. It could well save your life.

Calcium Score May Predict Your Risks For A Heart Attack

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 03:17:39 GMT

Calcium Score May Predict Your Risks For A Heart Attack

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand how your Calcium Score could be an important indicator of your risks of suffering from a heart attack.

Your Calcium Score can be found after performing a CT scan of your heart. This score is calculated by measuring the quantity of calcium that is present in the arteries that take blood to your heart, also known as the coronary arteries.

The purpose of the Calcium Score is to give you an idea of how much atherosclerotic plaque is present in your arteries. This is a good indication of your risks of heart disease.

If you have a high Calcium Score compared to other individuals in the same age range, you might be at high risk for a stroke or a heart attack. We highly recommend getting a heart scan if you are a man over the age of 45, even if you do not experience any symptoms. W also recommend a scan for women over the age of 55 with a Framingham Risk Score that indicates a risk for heart problems. The study mentioned above suggests that even individuals who are not at high risk for heart problems need a scan to see where they stand and make corrections in their risk behaviors.

Should you get a heart scan?

If you have relatives who suffer from heart problems, you need to be tested even if there are no other factors that increase your risks of a heart attack or stroke. It is very important to get your Calcium Score if a close relative such as a sibling suffers from heart disease and if the condition appeared early.

What does your Calcium Score mean?

This score ranges from 0 to thousands. If your score is 0, there are no deposits of calcium in your arteries and you are at low risk for heart problems as long as you do not smoke. This is valid for the following two to five years. If you have a score above 4000, there is plaque present in your arteries and you are at risk for a heart attack over the following 10 years. If your score is above 1,000, you have a 25% chance of getting a heart attack in the following year if you do not follow an adapted treatment. There are no known differences in Calcium Score and risks for heart problems between ethnic groups.

Your age is important when determining what your score means. For instance, an individual who is 40 or older and who has a score of 50 is at high risk. On the other hand, an individual who is 80 years old and who has the same score is at a much lower risk since their plaque has been building up at a very slow pace and has taken 30 years to reach the same level that was observed in the 40 years old patient. Your doctor will make some recommendations that include adopting a healthier diet if you have a high score for your age. Taking medications and making some changes to your lifestyle might also be necessary. Your doctor might prescribe medication to lower your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. If you have metabolic syndrome, diabetes or pre-diabetes, exercising is needed to reduce your risks of suffering from a heart attack.

What is a CT scan?

This procedure is quick and non-invasive. The CT scan only takes a few minutes and no dye is needed. You will have to lay down on an examination table and simply wait for the scanner to pass over you. You will not have to get another scan for at least five years if you have no calcium deposits. Your doctor will probably recommend that you get another scan within three to five years if your score shows that you are at risk.

Is a CT scan safe?

You will be exposed to radiation during the scan, but the amount of radiation does not exceed what you would be exposed to during a mammogram. The type of CT scan performed to calculate your Calcium Score is different from a CT angiography, a type of scan that requires the use of dye and that is riskier since a larger dose of radiation is needed. CT angiogram scans are sometimes overused or lead to unnecessary procedures such as cardiac cauterization, angioplasty or bypass surgery.

What is Osteoporosis And Why You Should Be Tested

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 03:17:19 GMT

What is Osteoporosis And Why You Should Be Tested

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones that happens when your body loses too much bones, makes too little bone material or both. As a result, your bones become weak and may break more easily.

The word “osteoporosis” means “porous bone.” If you looked at a bone under the microscope, it would resemble a honeycomb. When you have osteoporosis, the holes and spaces in the honeycomb are much larger than in a healthy bone, thus making a weaker structure.

It is estimates that nine million Americans may have osteoporosis and an additional 48 million may have low bone density. 60 percent of adults age 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone and should be concerned about their bone health. Approximately one in two women and up to one in four men age 50 or older will break a bone due to osteoporosis.

To help determine your bone’s health, it is recommended that you have a bone mineral density test (BMD) to show how dense your bones are and whether you have osteoporosis.

The most common osteoporosis test — and one we perform all the time at Fox Valley Imaging — is the dual x-ray absorptiometry scan or DEXA scan. This test measure your spine, hip or total body bone density to help gauge fracture risk.

A bone density test can help you and your healthcare provider:

learn if you have weak bones or osteoporosis before you break a bone
predict your chance of breaking a bone in the future
see if your bone density is improving, getting worse or staying the same
find out how well an osteoporosis medicine is working
let you know if you have osteoporosis after you break a bone

Most people need a prescription or referral from their healthcare provider to have a bone density test. If you’re not sure where to go for a bone density test, contact your healthcare provider or your insurance plan to find out where the test is available.

People taking an osteoporosis medicine should repeat their bone density test by central DXA every one – two years. After starting a new osteoporosis medicine, many healthcare providers will repeat a bone density test after one year.

Once you have consulted with your primary care physician and they have recommended a bone density scan, contact Fox Valley Imaging for an appointment. We’re a a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services.

Fox Valley Imaging’s services include fluoroscopy/arthrography, high field MRI/MRA, digital general x-rays, ultrasound, multidetector CT/CTA and DEXA. Appointments can be made by calling 630.416.1300.

Understanding the Difference Between a Single Slice CT and a Multi-Slice CT

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 03:17:29 GMT

Understanding the Difference Between a Single Slice CT and a Multi-Slice CT

Multi-Slice CT Scanners

Different Types of CT Scans

In order to understand the different types of CT imaging scans, you must first understand the meaning of the word “tomography.” This Greek word comes from two distinct words “tomos” and “graphe.” “Tomos” means “section or slice” while “graphe” means “drawing.”

When a patient passes through the CT, the circular opening rotates and takes a series of x-rays. Each rotation takes approximately 1 second. During the rotation, beams of radiation are used to make an image of the particular section of the patient’s body inside the circular opening.

Multiple slice CT scanners, first introduced in 1998, could take 4 separate images in each rotation. Since then, technology has improved and now, the CT scanners can take between 6 and 16 separate images in a single rotation.

Multi-Slice CT Scans Have An Advantage Over Single Slice CT Scans

This has improved the diagnostic capabilities of CT scanners. Recently new scanners capable of producing 32, 40 and even 64 images have been announced. These scanners will increase the diagnostic capabilities of CT scanners even further, resulting in clearer images and lower doses of radiation.

Multi-slice scanners mean that it takes less time to complete a CT scan. Additionally, the amount of radiation is reduced. The amount of radiation experienced depends on two factors. First, the design of the scanner impacts the amount of radiation required. Secondly, how the scanner is used determines the amount of radiation used.

One of the key differences between single slice scanners and multi-slice scanners is the geometric efficiency of the scan. This is directly proportional to the beam used during the imaging process. If the efficiency decreases from 100 percent down to 50 percent and all other factors remain equal, the dose of radiation must be doubled. Additionally, the amount of radiation used depends on the scan’s parameters- kV, rotation time, mA, scan field of view, focal spot size, pitch and slice width.

First Let’s Review What Is An MRI:

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 04:17:14 GMT

First Let’s Review What Is An MRI:

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic technique used to create images of the body like a CT scan. It is non-invasive (It does not enter the body cavity) and requires no radiation, instead it is based on the magnetic fields of the hydrogen atoms in the
body. By scanning the body, MRI is able to provide computer-generated images of the body’s internal tissues and organs.

MRI is capable of scanning the body in all three planes Axial, Sagital and Coronal. These detailed two dimentional views offer your treating physician the necessary information to properly diagnose your condition and plan the course of treatment.

What is the difference between a closed or open MRI Scanner:

Most people think a Closed MRI is the same as an Open just more restrictive. Not true. There are some major differences that you should know about before you go for your next MRI. First the strength of the magnet. Most closed MRI’s are 1.5 Tesla. Translation, 1 Tesla = 10,000 gauss (unit measure commonly used with magnets). Compared with the Earth’s 0.5 gauss magnetic field gives you an idea of how strong the closed MRI is. In comparison, an Open MRI can range from 0.25 Tesla to 0.7 Tesla. Without getting too technical, a closed scanner is 3 to 8 times stronger than the Open. There are other measures that influence image quality like the slew rate and software levels, we will talk about in future blogs.

Translation: High field MRI scanners provide superior images that are diagnostic and not simply for screening. It is important to know that while Open scanners might be easier to tolerate if you are claustrophobic, the scan itself is inferior and in many instances must be repeated in a high field closed scanner to obtain diagnostic images.

Solution for Claustrophobia,

Most patients that think they are claustrophobic find out that they are able to handle it by calming themselves down and relaxing before the scan Things to avoid before getting your scan: coffee and other caffeinated drinks or foods. Caffeine tends to increase the anxiety level. Also, avoid eating a large meal before the scan since you will be lying down flat. Wear comfortable clothing that does not have metal (sweat pants, sweat shirt).

When you check in for your MRI scan, notify the technician that you are claustrophobic. The technologist will give you music to listen to, a panic button to push if you needed help and for some scans he can place a mirror above you eyes to see outside. You will be monitored the whole time you are getting scanned. The technologist is able to stop the scan any time and bring you out if needed.

For patients that are still having trouble with anxiety/claustrophobia, your Dr. can prescribe an oral medicine like valium or diazapam.

Conclusion:

Don’t allow claustrophobia to stop you from getting diagnosed properly by a high field closed MRI. As we discussed above, there are things you can do to overcome claustrophobia and get the best quality scan possible.

Happy scanning.

Dan

How Ultrasound Can Also Be Used To Diagnosis Health Problems

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 04:16:58 GMT

How Ultrasound Can Also Be Used To Diagnosis Health Problems

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation like an x-ray does. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.

Ultrasound imaging is usually a painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Conventional ultrasound displays the images in thin, flat sections of the body.

Ultrasound examinations can help to diagnose a variety of conditions and to assess organ damage following illness. Ultrasound is used to help physicians diagnose symptoms such as:

pain
swelling
infection

Ultrasound imaging is based on the same principles involved in the sonar used by bats, ships and fishermen. When a sound wave strikes an object, it bounces backward, or echoes. By measuring these echo waves it is possible to determine how far away the object is and its size, shape, consistency (whether the object is solid, filled with fluid, or both) and uniformity.

In medicine, ultrasound is used to detect changes in appearance and function of organs, tissues, or abnormal masses, such as tumors.

In an ultrasound examination, a transducer sends the sound waves and also records the echoing waves. When the transducer is pressed against the skin, it directs a stream of inaudible, high-frequency sound waves into the body. As the sound waves bounce off of internal organs, fluids and tissues, the sensitive microphone in the transducer records tiny changes in the sound’s pitch and direction. These signature waves are instantly measured and displayed by a computer, which in turn creates a real-time picture on the monitor.

A radiologist, a physician specifically trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will share the results with you. In some cases the radiologist may discuss preliminary results with you at the conclusion of your examination.

Same Day MRI Service Helps A Prominent College Athlete

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 04:16:53 GMT

Same Day MRI Service Helps A Prominent College Athlete

For college athletes, time is of the essence when it comes to recovering from injuries. The longer the recovery process, the more time the athlete spends away from training and competition. Same-day MRI service plays a crucial role in minimizing recovery time by expediting the diagnosis and subsequent treatment. With immediate access to MRI scans, athletes can begin their recovery journey sooner, enabling medical professionals to implement appropriate therapies promptly.

This not only shortens the overall recovery period but also enhances the athlete's chances of regaining optimal physical condition swiftly, getting them back on the field, court, or track sooner than ever before.

Psychological Benefits

In addition to the physical benefits, same-day MRI service also provides invaluable psychological support to college athletes. The uncertainty and anxiety associated with injuries can be overwhelming, particularly for those who fear the unknown. By offering same-day MRI scans, athletes can alleviate their concerns and gain a sense of control over their situation. The quick turnaround time ensures that they receive a clear diagnosis and can start the recovery process promptly, reducing anxiety and promoting peace of mind. This psychological relief can have a profound impact on an athlete's overall well-being, allowing them to focus on their rehabilitation and mental preparation for their return to sport.

Enhanced Performance and Career Prospects

Timely access to MRI scans through same-day service not only aids in the recovery process but also has long-term implications for college athletes' performance and career prospects. Swift diagnosis and treatment minimize the risk of further aggravating an injury, preventing potential long-term damage. By utilizing same-day MRI service, college athletes can receive targeted treatment plans tailored to their specific injuries, which optimize the recovery process. This, in turn, allows athletes to regain their peak physical condition faster, enhancing their performance and increasing their chances of returning to the field at their best.

The introduction of same-day MRI service has ushered in a new era of healthcare for college athletes. By offering expedited access to high-quality imaging, this innovative service has revolutionized the way injuries are diagnosed and treated in the world of college sports. Through accelerated diagnosis, minimized recovery time, psychological benefits, and enhanced performance and career prospects, same-day MRI service is empowering college athletes to overcome injuries and reclaim their athletic prowess more efficiently than ever before. As this service continues to evolve and gain wider adoption, we can expect to see a positive impact on the lives and careers of countless college athletes around the world.

Ultrasound Image Quality Improvements

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:21:33 GMT

Ultrasound Image Quality Improvements

Today, ultrasound technology is producing images with much higher resolution than in the past. This allows doctors to see with much sharper definition. “Everyone is used to ultrasound pictures being fuzzy,” said Tomo Hasegawa, director, ultrasound business unit, Toshiba America Medical Systems. With enhancements in computer technology doing real-time processing, we’re starting to get images that are so clear, people don’t even realize it’s ultrasound”.

The principal reason why there has been such a great improvement in ultrasound equipment is because of the many recent upgrades to the technology. For instance, there has been a tremendous improvement in transducer sensitivity and beamformer. Also, the speed of processing and the final data display quality have been greatly improved. Because of these improvements, physicians are now able to distinguish details that are much smaller and a great deal deeper than was possible before these improvements. For example, you can now see the flow in vessels that are as tiny as 2 mm in diameters, such as what is found in structures like the lymph nodes and the kidneys.

Following are the current trends in medical imaging:

Technologies that will provide better management of the dosage and exposure to ionizing radiation
Solutions will be transportable, mobile and wireless
Capabilities to evaluate tissue stiffness using elastography
Technologies resulting in improved patient comfort
Imaging equipment that is easy to use will become commonplace

Ultrasound is able to accomplish every one of these requirements.

Whether it is for general imaging, ob/gyn or cardiac use, ultrasound has evolved to handle all types of examinations. Over time, as ultrasound has become more complex, users have become specialists who are more and more proficient in managing the system. At the same time, the miniaturization trend in ultrasound equipment is rapidly facilitating the ability to extend point-of-care usage, such as when the clinician is able to come to a diagnosis at the patient’s bedside using ultrasound for immediate diagnosis.

Many new ways to utilize ultrasound are quickly becoming available as the market expands into new areas. Ultrasound is now being used in breast imaging and biopsies, cardiology, head and neck surgery, gastroenterology, pulmonology, anesthesiology, ophthalmology, neurology, neonatology, vascular imaging, urology, emergency medicine and musculoskeletal exams and other possibilities.

At Fox Valley Imaging, we will always integrate the latest imaging advances in technology. Our 3T systems offer higher resolutions which help prevent misdiagnosis due to substandard older technologies found in many locations. We are leading the way to a more accurate diagnosis.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools – The Difference Between A CT Scan And An MRI

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:21:31 GMT

Advanced Diagnostic Tools – The Difference Between A CT Scan And An MRI

Advanced diagnostic tools, such as a CT scan or an MRI, allow physicians to scrutinize soft tissues throughout the body. The physician uses this information to diagnose tumors, blood clots, and musculoskeletal disorders. Both an MRI and a CT scanner look similar; however, they are actually quite different.

Advantages of CT Scans and MRIs

A CT scan, also known as Computed Tomography, is used to diagnose cancers, chest problems, and bone injuries. This scan only takes around 5 minutes to complete, making it the preferred choice for emergency situations. The CT scan show bones, soft tissues and blood vessels at the same time. Additionally, a CT scan is not as sensitive to patient movement during the procedure. The cost of a CT scan is a lot lower than that of an MRI.

One of the small disadvantages to the CT scan is the radiation used to produce the images on the scan. Although the radiation is considered safe and minimal, it is not recommended for patients who have repeated exposure to radiation. Additionally, the CT scan should not be used on pregnant women or children unless it is absolutely necessary.

An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, uses a powerful magnetic field to show dense tissues throughout the body, such as tendons and ligaments. One advantage of this type of diagnostic tool is an MRI does not use radiation. The MRI takes approximately 15 minutes and 2 hours to complete. MRIs offer a much higher detailed image of soft tissues compared to the CT scan.

How Images Are Produced

An MRI uses a powerful magnet along with pulsing radio waves to produce an image. The MRI reads the energy produced by the water molecules in the body as they align themselves with the radio waves. The information is then rendered into two-dimensional images. Because bones do not contain moisture, the bones show up as a black area on the images. This type of scan is perfect for detailed imaging of soft tissues throughout the body.

A CT scan uses x-rays to produce images of the body. These images include bones, soft tissues, and muscles. The x-ray tube is located on one side of the scanner and an x-ray detector is located on the other side of the scanner. As the radiation beam passes through the patient, the detector generates a detailed image of the soft tissues, organs, and bones in the body.

There are numerous advantages to each type of advanced diagnostic tool. A physician will choose the type of diagnostic tool to be used based on the information he needs to collect and the detail of the information he will receive. Doctors will also take the patient’s health into account when determining the type of diagnostic testing to be used.

Arthritis In An Injured Ankle Joint

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:21:28 GMT

Arthritis In An Injured Ankle Joint

To reduce the potential for painful and debilitating arthritis, it is important to properly care for an injured ankle joint. Doing so allows the joint to heal and become strong again. With the right care, you can enjoy pain-free walking.

Traumatic injuries to a joint, such as a broken bone or torn ligament, can also result in arthritis occurring later in life. Sometimes, even if you get the best medical treatment, you can still develop arthritis in a joint that has been injured. However, receiving proper care does make future problems less likely.

If you are experiencing pain in your ankles or feet, it is important to have the area examined by a doctor. X-rays, bone scans, and MRIs may be used to examine the injured area. The results of these tests can then be used to determine whether or not you have arthritis.

Arthritis can be treated in a number of different ways. For mild cases, your doctor may prescribe painkillers, such as ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatories. Steroid injections can also be used to provide relief from the painful inflammation of the joint. Physical therapy can also be used to strengthen the muscles around the joint to provide more support.

In more severe cases of arthritis, surgery may be required. The joint may need to be cleaned out or adjusted to provide relief. If the joint is very badly worn or damaged, it may need to be replaced with an artificial joint. After such a procedure, you may need to spend several months recovering.

Maintaining good joint health is crucial if you want to stay active and mobile for as long as possible. Talk to your doctor right away if you are experiencing joint pain.

What You Need To Know About A Sprained Ankle

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:21:27 GMT

What You Need To Know About A Sprained Ankle

Sprained ankles are among the most common injuries, with thousands of people spraining their ankles every day. These injuries are not limited to athletes. Anyone can have a sprained ankle, and these injuries can occur during ordinary activities, such as walking down the sidewalk.

Many people use the words “sprain” and “strain” interchangeably, but they actually refer to distinct types of injuries. A sprain happens when there is stretching or tearing of one of your ligaments. These are the fibrous bands of tissue that connect one bone to another at a joint.

A strain, on the other hand, involves stretching or tearing a muscle or a tendon. The tendons are the bands that connect a muscle to a bone. Both sprains and strains can be quite painful and debilitating, and some injuries can result in both a sprain and a strain.

A sprained ankle happens when your foot moves in a way that is outside its normal range of motion. For example, if you step on an uneven surface, your foot can move in a way that puts too much force on the ankle joint. If this force is too great, the ligaments will be stretched and can tear.

If you step and experience pain in your ankle, this may be a sign that you have sprained it. In some cases, you may be unable to put any weight on the affected foot. A popping sound can even be heard in some cases. The ankle will become painful and may swell up.

Sprains are generally rated on a three-point scale depending upon the severity of the injury. A Grade 1 sprain is the mildest. It involves a slight stretching of the ligament, but not a complete or even partial tear. While the ankle may feel sore, you should still be able to walk without significant difficulty.

With a Grade 2 sprain, the ligament has partially torn. These sprains are more painful and it can be much harder to put any weight on your foot. The ankle joint may be abnormally loose and move in unusual ways.

Grade 3 sprains are the most severe and involve a complete tear of the ligament. You will be unable to walk or put any weight on your foot. When a doctor examines your ankle, it will be significantly unstable and he will be able to move the joint more freely than is normal.

If you suspect that you have sprained your ankle, it is important to see a doctor right away. By using X-rays, they can make sure that you have not broken any bones. Mild sprains can often be treated at home by protecting the joint until it heals. More severe sprains may require surgical intervention.

Keep the area immobilized for four to six weeks to let it heal. Use ice to keep any swelling down, and take anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen. With the proper care, a sprained ankle can heal so that you will be able to regain your previous mobility.

Are MRIs Safe During Pregnancy?

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 06:59:46 GMT

Are MRIs Safe During Pregnancy?

Understanding the Safety of MRI Scans In Pregnancy

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, scans are a form of scan that can be used to view a cross-section of the inside of your body. Images created from an MRI look a little like images taken from an X-Ray, but instead of revealing just bone they reveal the entire cross-section of the part of the body being scanned. In addition, unlike x-rays, MRI scans do not rely on radiation.

How MRIs Work

The MRI scanner causes the nuclei of the hydrogen atoms in your body to align by creating a powerful, uniform magnetic field. The atoms then absorb energy from precisely tuned radio pulses and emit radio signals. The scanner receives those signals and converts them into images which can be analyzed by a doctor.

Are MRIs Safe During Pregnancy

MRI scans do not use radiation, and they are a low-risk procedure. Thousands of pregnant women have MRI scans performed, without any harm coming to the mother or baby. The most difficult part of an MRI for most expectant mothers is that they require you to remain still in the tube for up to 40 minutes, depending on the part of the body being scanned.

In some MRIs, it is necessary to use a contrast material to make the scan easier to read. This contrast material is called gadolinium, and it is injected into your veins in order to highlight certain parts of the scan. While the use of this contrast material is routine in patients that are not pregnant, it will only be used during pregnancy if it is absolutely necessary.

The MRI scanner can be quite noisy, but according to a study conducted in 2010 by Reeves et al. the noise produced by the scanner is not enough to damage the hearing of a baby even during the second or third trimester. In addition, the electromagnetic fields produced by the scanner have not been found to be harmful. The MRI is thought by many to be one of the safest and least intrusive scans in modern medicine.

Why Might a Doctor Order an MRI?

Your doctor may choose to order an MRI if you are experiencing symptoms that require medical treatment, or you have had an examination performed and the results are not clear enough on their own. If your doctor orders an MRI during pregnancy, this means that they feel the symptoms you are reporting are serious enough that they require treatment before the birth of your baby.

If your doctor wants to examine your baby, they will choose an ultrasound first. If the ultrasound image is not clear enough, or if they want to examine parts of your body, rather than the baby, then they may recommend an MRI instead.

If you have any concerns about the safety of the MRI scanner, or any other treatments, talk to your doctor. They will be happy to explain why they have ordered the procedure, and to lay out the risks and benefits of that procedure.

Study of Pacemaker Safety in MRI Scans

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 06:59:45 GMT

Study of Pacemaker Safety in MRI Scans

Back in 2011, a study conducted by cardiologists at John Hopkins has found that MRI scans could be safer than initially thought for people who have a certain kind of pacemaker or implanted cardiac devices, assuming that specific guidelines are followed prior to and during the scan.

Click here to read the John Hopkins study

The study looked at more than 400 people who had pacemakers or other implanted cardiac devices and who were given MRI scans. It was found that there was a very low risk of the implanted device malfunctioning, moving or otherwise failing to perform correctly. However, three of the patients (or 1.5 percent of the devices) suffered from a power-on reset during the MRI scan. This is a problem that can be easily rectified, allowing the test to continue.

It had always been assumed that patients with pacemakers could not have MRI scans performed, for safety reasons. This study suggested more options may be available in the future. While this information is now three years old it is worth pointing out there are more options emerging every day.

In general, if you have any concerns about the safety of an MRI scan, or indeed any other treatment or diagnostic procedure, talk to your doctor and ask them to explain what the procedure is, why they have recommended it, and the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Note that the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only, and should not be thought of as medical advice. There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to MRIs, and not all applications are suitable for all patients. Only your doctor and radiologist can tell you whether or not a procedure is suitable for you.

The Rotator Cuff Can Be Vulnerable to Pain and Injury

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:59:40 GMT

The Rotator Cuff Can Be Vulnerable to Pain and Injury

Your shoulder is a marvelously designed piece of human machinery, and yet it is also vulnerable to pain and injury.

Rotator cuff injury is especially common and painful to deal with. Some basic pain management strategies along with an exercise program are beneficial in coping with and recovering from a harmed shoulder joint. In more extreme or persistent cases, surgical measures may have to be taken.

Basic Facts About the Shoulder

The shoulder is among the largest and most complicated joints in the whole human body. It is a ball and socket type joint formed by the upper arm bone (humerus) connecting to the shoulder blade (scapula). The socket is a cup inside of a ring of cartilage (the labrum). Four individual muscles surround the shoulder joint and are known collectively as the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff strengthens and protects the humerus-shoulder blade connection and gives the arm a wide range of possible motion. This freedom of motion unfortunately also entails a certain vulnerability to injury, and this accounts for the fact that some 30% of adults will experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives.

Shoulder Pain and Its Causes

Lifting objects too heavy to handle or with faulty posture, slips and falls, auto, workplace, or at-home accidents, or sports injuries are all possible sources of shoulder pain or injury. Over-exerting oneself or over-using the shoulder can lead to strains, pains, dislocation, pinched nerves, or frozen shoulder (rotator cuff injury).

Rotator Cuff Problems

The uppermost muscle of the rotator cuff (the supraspinatus) is one of the most commonly sore or harmed parts of the shoulder joint. The supraspinatus’ tendon runs underneath the shoulder blade (specifically, under the acromion) and is liable to become pinched between the two acromion and clavicle- the two bones that make up the shoulder blade. The tendon will then become inflamed. This condition leads to severe pain on the front and outside of the shoulder and prevents one from raising their arm or lifting an object above the head without increasing the intensity of the pain. It is common for persons with damaged rotator cuffs or tendons to have trouble sleeping, the pain is so acute, and the simplest tasks become a great challenge.

Things You Can Do to Alleviate the Pain

First of all you should give your shoulder an “active rest,” keeping it from all heavy lifting and strenuous activities but not retiring it into total disuse. Second, the application of moist heat or ice to the affected area can help reduce pain. Third, ibuprofen or some other non-steroidal anti-inflammation medication can help. Fourth, on occasion, it may be advisable to inject anti-inflammation steroids such as cortico-steroids into the localized pain source.

Exercises You Can Do to Aid Recovery

The first type of exercise to use in any shoulder pain rehabilitation therapy is range-of-motion exercise. Begin by rotating your arm at the shoulder in small circles and continue increasing circle size until you are moving in large circles. Once you can handle range-of-motion exercises, the next step is to move on to resistance exercises which aim to strengthen rotator cuff muscles. Finally, the last step is the use of weight lifting with machines or free weights. Additionally, aerobics can help by increasing blood circulation to the tendons and thus reducing soreness.

The Possible Need for Surgery

If tendons or ligaments are torn, or if the rotator cuff is badly hurt, it is likely that surgical correction will be necessary. In still other cases, where rehabilitation techniques and programs seem to be failing and the arm remains weak when it makes particular motions, it may become apparent that shoulder surgery is the answer.

Summary

Shoulder pain is a common problem that is treatable through a combination of pain reduction measures, physical training, and surgical procedures. The shoulder itself is a complicated and extremely large joint that connects the humerus to the shoulder blade while allowing for a generous movement and rotation capability. This free motion sometimes leads to over-extension or spraining. Other times, sudden impacts during sports events or due to a car crash or other accident create shoulder problems that require adequate time and intelligent care to recover from. The rotator cuff and its tendon have a highly important job to perform in protecting the shoulder joint and moving the upper arm, and normally they perform it quite well, but this part of the shoulder is also probably the most prone to injury. Those with persistent or acute shoulder pain should consult their physician and ask for an examination.

Was The Hip Fracture or The Fall First?

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 04:25:13 GMT

Was The Hip Fracture or The Fall First?

A hip fracture is a break in the uppermost quarter of the femur, normally appearing near the ball-and-socket joint of the hip. In adults over 65, there are a minimum of 258,000 hip fracture hospitalizations each year, according to the Center for Disease Control . Additionally, a fifth of patients who suffered a hip fracture die within the year following their fracture.

For this demographic, a hip fracture can be a life changing event.

The recovery time for hip fractures is up to a year and requires extensive rehabilitation. due to the long recovery time and required rehabilitation.

Additionally, for a third of previously independent older adults , a hip fracture can mean admission into an assisted living center.

Hip Fractures and Falls

While it is true that many hip fractures occur because of a fall caused by a loss of balance, this is not always the case. Did you know that some falls can occur because of a previously fractured hip? In some cases, the hip bones is more vulnerable to breaking because of a previous existing condition.

The following medical conditions may result in an increased susceptibility to breaking in the hip:

stress injuries
cancer
osteoporosis

In some instances, these conditions can cause the hip bone to be so weakened that even twisting or standing on the leg can cause a fracture. Many doctors believe the fracture happens first and then results in a fall more often than people realize.

Osteoporosis and Hip Fractures

According to research released by The National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 54 million adults over the age of 50, who are living in America, suffer from osteoporosis or low bone mass. This research also predicted rates to continue to increase similarly to how they have in the past.

This prediction would mean an increase of 29% between the years of 2010 and 2030, meaning an estimated 71.2 million older adults will have low bone mass or osteoporosis by 2030.

Are you at risk for osteoporosis?

It is helpful to understand if you are at risk for osteoporosis. There are many factors which can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis in the future. Being a woman, aging, and being thin or small automatically put you at risk for developing osteoporosis. Additionally, your medical history may play a role if you have osteoporosis in your family history, if you are a taking certain medications, and you already have low bone density.

If you feel you have reason to be concerned, or feel you may be at risk for osteoporosis, a bone density test is the best best test that can diagnose osteoporosis .

About Bone Density Tests

Bone density tests use low-dose x-rays to measure the level of certain minerals, specifically calcium, in a specific section of a bone. Bone density tests can diagnose you with low bone density or osteoporosis. The test can also be used the measure the success of your current osteoporosis treatment by determining if your condition is improving, worsening, or remaining the same.

Bone Density Tests may be known by a myriad of alternative names, including:

BMD Test
Bone densitometry
Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry or DEXA scan
Bone Scan
DXA
p-DEXA

Ultimately, the goal of a bone density test is to help you determine if you have osteoporosis and may be at risk for a fall in the future, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation . It is a painless procedure , which can completed in less than half an hour.

Who Should Have a Bone Density Test?

Individuals who are at risk for osteoporosis should have a bone density test. If you you are at risk for osteoporosis, you may also be at risk for a fall in the future. Additionally, it is recommend that you have a bone density test if any of the following factors apply to you:

you are a postmenopausal woman who is over 5 feet 7 inches or weighs less than 125 and you are not taking estrogen.
you or your mother have a history of smoking.
you have a family history of osteoporosis or your mother has a history of bone fracture.
you have type I diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, a thyroid or parathyroid condition
you have a medical conditions or you are taking medications known to be associated with bone loss.
you have experienced a fracture as the result of mild trauma.
you have had an x-ray which indicated other signs of osteoporosis.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests you repeat a bone density test every one to two years if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. By doing so, your doctor can measure the effectiveness of the medication you are taking.

After having a bone density test, your healthcare provider can work with you to determine if your results warrant pursuing treatment. Doctor appointments are also available with our sister company First Choice Medical located in our same building. Your doctor will take into consideration your test results, as well as your risk factors for osteoporosis, and your medical history before making a decision about treatment.

If you feel you may be at risk for osteoporosis or are concerned about injuring yourself in a fall, we suggest you speak with your healthcare provider about your concerns, including getting a bone density test for osteoporosis.

Bone density tests are inexpensive and help avoid problems in the future.

Please call Fox Valley Imaging at 630-416-1300 to schedule your bone density test.

Open Vs Closed MRI Machines – Which Ones Provide Higher Quality Images?

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 04:25:12 GMT

Open Vs Closed MRI Machines – Which Ones Provide Higher Quality Images?

The the past Open MRI machines made it challenging for physicians to decide between patient comfort and image quality. Today with advancements in other MRI systems, “Open MRI” means the patient is often not being told about the limitations of open systems. Too often it’s a degree of marketing spin where the patient is not told the alternatives and difference in quality exists.

The power of the magnet matters!

Open MRI sounds more comfortable and freeing. However due to their open structure the images are significantly degraded in terms of visible details, they are lower quality. Lower quality images can lead to misdiagnosis or the wrong treatment. Open scanners usually have a magnetic field strength of 0.23 Tesla and offer much less detail for the radiologist to interpret.

When using closed (High field) MRI machines. Scanners with high field strength, 1.5 to 3 Tesla provides images with much greater detail, higher resolution with great clarity. It is easy to read and interpret scans from high field MRI machines. It’s even possible to see things the individual pinched nerve fibers.

Modern high field MRI machines provide images with incredible detail. They are also more comfortable than the high field machines that were used in the past.

The key advantages of High Field MRI scanners:

Their high field strength makes them more powerful.
Images can be acquired much faster. To be precise, the images can be obtained 1.5 to 2 times faster than the speed at which images can be obtained when using open MRI machines.
Because of the shorter scanning time, there is less patient motion during the scanning process. This makes images clearer and more accurate
Modern MRI machines are capable of providing more detailed images of small areas of interests of interest. This is because of the stronger magnetic field created by the high field scanners.
Modern MRI machines give doctors access to more advanced imaging techniques that are not available when using open scanners.
High field scanners provide a more precise diagnosis.

In the past, the use of open MRI machines were on the increase because there has been misconception that closed scanners are more claustrophobic to patients. However, new scanners have been designed with the comfort of the patients in mind. They have shorter tubes (or bores) open on both ends to reduce anxiety in patients. They are also wider than the older scanners to prevent the feeling of being closed in. Today’s closed scanners have been designed with superior lighting and ventilation systems. More light and air movement when scanning is being done helps to increase patients’ comfort significantly.

Open MRI machines may seem great to patients who are uncomfortable being in a closed environment during scanning. However, they provide lower quality images compared to the images that are provided by 3T (3-Tesla) MRI machines. This is because of their design and low power magnets. The images obtained from open MRI machines are blurred and lightly focused. Such images can easily lead to a wrong diagnosis.

When given a choice, would you like your doctor to make critical decisions with a lower quality image or from an image with clear details?

Will the Affordable Care Act Reduce Access To Diagnostic Imaging Services?

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 04:25:08 GMT

Will The Affordable Care Act Reduce Access To Diagnostic Imaging Services?

Advanced diagnostic imaging procedures such as MRIs and CT scans have long been touted as the high tech villains responsible for the growth in American medical costs. There has always been the implication that they are somehow “luxury items” that are being prescribed unnecessarily to make money for imaging centers and physicians. In fact, they have been identified as a major contributor to observed increases in life expectancy in the United States.

In fact, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) helps make prevention affordable and accessible for all Americans by requiring health plans to cover preventive services and by eliminating cost-sharing. Preventive services that have strong scientific evidence of their health benefits must be covered and plans can no longer charge a patient a co-payment, coinsurance or deductible for these services when they are delivered by a network provider.

While United States law prohibits physicians from referring patients to providers with whom they have a financial relationship, ancillary services provided in the same facility — such as in-house x-ray services — are a legal exception to this rule. The ACA expands requirements for referral to “in-house ancillary services” by requiring physicians to provide patients with a disclosure stating that similar services are available elsewhere, as well as a list of nearby providers. Stand-alone radiology providers like Fox Valley Imaging may, as a result, see an increase in their patient numbers.

Using The MRI For Sports Injuries

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 04:10:35 GMT

Using The MRI For Sports Injuries

Sports season – pro football, hockey, and basketball – are in high gear now and it seems more and more professional athletes are getting hurt. One of the most critical – and some say overused – diagnostic procedures to assess the potential damage of a sports injury is the MRI.

But what does an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, show?

To begin with, magnetic resonance imaging is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI gives different information about structures in the body than can be seen with an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.

The unique soft-tissue contrast capabilities of MRI makes it a good tool for evaluating sports injuries. In many cases of knee injuries, for example, the physical finding may be hard to specify and an MRI can define the problem. MRI is greater than 90% sensitive to and specific for detecting meniscal tears and can even define tears that are best treated with primary meniscal repair.

Anterior and posterior cruciate ligament tears are also accurately defined with an MRI. MRIs may also define some bone injuries that are not diagnosed with x-rays. In complex knee injuries, MRI may detect the full spectrum of findings, which may include injuries to the menisci, cruciate and collateral ligaments and bone.

When done properly, the MRI is the only technique that can determine the degree of rotator cuff injuries as well as diagnose complete tears.

In the foot and ankle, MRIS is used to define occult bone injuries in patients with persistent pain. Tendon and ligament disruption, plantar fascitis and Achilles tendon tears can also be diagnosed with an MRI.

Thus, this technique is unique in its ability to evaluate a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries non-invasively, just the type of “typical” injuries an athlete is likely to suffer from during normal play.

Paying For Preventative vs. Diagnostic Care

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:09:42 GMT

Paying For Preventative vs. Diagnostic Care

Preventative vs. Diagnostic Care

With the Affordable Care Act being on everyone’s radar this month, there’s a lot of discussion as to what’s preventative care and what’s diagnostic. Before you have a test or service, it is good to understand if it will be covered as a preventive service in your plan. Remember – if the service is not preventive, your deductible, copays, and coinsurance may apply.

Preventive = Deductible does not apply

When you have no symptoms, no reason to think you aren’t healthy and you get a service or test listed in the Preventive Health Care Guidelines, it’s a “preventive service.” If your doctor orders a preventive service more often than these guidelines suggest, it’s still a preventive service.

Diagnostic = Deductible applies

When you have some risk factors or symptoms, your doctor may order one of the tests listed in the Preventive Health Care Guidelines as a “diagnostic service” to diagnose what’s wrong. It’s the same service, but it’s not preventive care; see the examples below:

You will have to pay for a diagnostic service up to the amount of your deductible before your Priority Health plan begins to pay for it. This is called “meeting” your deductible.
You may also have to pay coinsurance after you meet your deductible.
If you have a chronic disease and your doctor runs certain tests to monitor your condition, these are not considered preventive and will be subject to your deductible.
If your doctor runs additional, non-routine tests to diagnose or confirm the diagnosis for a health condition during a preventive care exam, those tests are not considered preventive. Your deductible will apply.
If you require follow-up visits or treatments for a condition found during a preventive exam, your deductible will apply to those visits or treatments.
If your doctor recommends tests that are not proven to be medically necessary, your deductible will apply to the cost of these tests. Be sure to talk to your doctor to understand why he/she recommends these services.

MRI or Mammogram: Which Is Better?

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:09:40 GMT

MRI or Mammogram: Which Is Better?

A recent article appeared in the Chicago Tribune regarding using an MRI rather than a mammogram to detect breast cancer. The question was whether the MRI would catch the disease earlier.

Mammograms aren’t perfect: they do use low doses of radiation to image the breast and they can miss some tumors. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is known to be more sensitive than mammography at detecting nearly all invasive cancers and a majority of in-situ (noninvasive) cancers. It certainly can find some tumors that mammography misses. And since MR uses a magnet to image the breast, it does not involve any radiation exposure.

Although MR is more sensitive than mammography, there can be false positives with this technology which could lead to follow-up imaging and/or biopsies, revealing benign changes in the end. Since some of these false positives are related to normal hormonal fluctuations, it is important to perform this study at the correct time of the menstrual cycle.

Yet, it is important for women to be aware that although MRI is not a perfect test, it does offer the advantage of finding cancers, often earlier than mammography. But MR does not replace mammographic screening – it is complementary.

The truth is, for most, a mammogram works as well as a screening test for breast cancer.

Fox Valley Imaging now offers mammograms as one of the diagnostic tests we perform at our facility. Whether a mammogram or breast MRI, please consider us for your diagnostic needs.

Is CT Or MRI Better For Brain Imaging?

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:00:45 GMT

Is CT Or MRI Better For Brain Imaging?

The answer to this question is dependent on the purpose of the procedure. CT and MRI are complementary techniques, each with its own weaknesses and strengths. The decision as to which procedure to use is dependent on a number of factors:

How quickly it is necessary to obtain the scan
What part of the head is being examined
Age of the patient

Both techniques are designed to examine specific problems. The advantages of each procedure serve as general guidelines that your doctor will use to decide between head CT and MRI:

Advantages of head CT

CT is much faster than MRI, making it the study of choice in cases of trauma and other acute neurological emergencies
CT is less sensitive to patient motion during the examination. because the imaging can be performed much more rapidly
CT may be easier to perform in claustrophobic or very heavy patients
CT allows accurate detection of calcification and metal foreign bodies
CT can be performed at no risk to the patient with implantable medical devices, such as cardiac pacemakers, ferromagnetic vascular clips and nerve stimulators

Advantages of head MRI

MRI does not use ionizing radiation, and is thus preferred over CT in children and patients requiring multiple imaging examinations
MRI has a much greater range of available soft tissue contrast, depicts anatomy in greater detail and is more sensitive and specific for abnormalities within the brain itself
MRI scanning can be performed in any imaging plane without having to physically move the patient
MRI contrast agents have a considerably smaller risk of causing potentially lethal allergic reaction
MRI allows the evaluation of structures that may be obscured by artifacts from bone in CT images

Get Ready For A Wait In Your Doctor’s Waiting Room

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:57:13 GMT

Get Ready For A Wait In Your Doctor’s Waiting Room

There’s one thing for sure about the Affordable Care Act – there will be a lot more people going to the doctor. The U.S. already has a doctor shortage, even as the medical needs of its aging population rise. The problem is about to worsen, with 25 million uninsured Americans expected to get health coverage through the Affordable Care Act by 2016, based on projections from the Congressional Budget Office. About half that number will gain access through changes in eligibility rules for Medicaid, the state-run insurance program for the poor.

Most practices, however, aren’t expecting a tidal wave of new patients, rather a gradual – but continuous and increasing – lift of that tide.

Massachusetts, which passed a health care law similar to the Affordable Care Act in 2006, may provide a preview of what’s to come. That state has more doctors per capita than any other, yet patients in Boston had the longest wait times of the 15 U.S. cities surveyed this past year. Physicians were booked more than six weeks out, almost double of the state with the next longest wait – Denver. And roughly half of Massachusetts internists and family doctors are not taking new patients, according to the Massachusetts Medical Society.

The rush may begin as soon as January, when all of those newly-signed up people make doctors appointments for check-ups and other ails – many for the first time in years.

So what’s this mean at Fox Valley Imaging? Absolutely nothing! We pride ourselves on short wait times, convenient parking and easy access to our facility. Our technicians and doctors are highly skilled and very good at their jobs, meaning your time with a procedure is kept to a minimum.

When your doctor or primary care physician orders a diagnostic test, consider the facility with almost no wait – Fox Valley Imaging.

Common Winter Injuries And How To Prevent Them

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:57:10 GMT

Common Winter Injuries And How To Prevent Them

Nearly 500,000 people were treated at hospitals, doctor’s offices and emergency rooms for winter injuries and sports-related injuries in 2013, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Roughly one-third were from snow skiing, one-third from snow boarding and the other third from ice skating, sledding or tobogganing.

Common winter sports injuries include sprains, strains, dislocations, and fractures. Many of these injuries happen at the end of the day when people overexert themselves to finish that one last run before the day’s end. A majority of these injuries can easily be prevented if participants prepare for their sport by keeping in good physical condition, staying alert, and stopping when they are tired or in pain.

There are many things you can do to help prevent injury during favorite winter activities.

Never participate alone in a winter sport.
Keep in shape and condition muscles before participating in winter activities.
Warm-up thoroughly before playing or participating. Cold muscles, tendons, and ligaments are vulnerable to injury.
Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves, and padding.
Check that equipment is working properly prior to use.
Wear several layers of light, loose and water- and wind-resistant clothing for warmth and protection. Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. Wear proper footwear that provides warmth and dryness, as well as ample ankle support.
Know and abide by all rules of the sport in which you are participating.
Take a lesson (or several) from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing and snowboarding. Learning how to fall correctly and safely can reduce the risk of injury.
Pay attention to warnings about upcoming storms and severe drops in temperature to ensure safety.
Seek shelter and medical attention immediately if you, or anyone with you, is experiencing hypothermia or frostbite. Make sure everyone is aware of proper procedures for getting help if injuries occur.
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities.
Avoid participating in sports when you are in pain or exhausted.

Should you suffer an injury this winter and your doctor orders a diagnostic test such as an MRI or x-ray, consider Fox Valley Imaging for the procedure. Our office is easy to get to with plenty of parking and the wait times are minimal. Best of all, our costs tend to be lower than at local hospital facilities. Give us a call at 630-416-1300 for more information.

Are Those “Free” Checkups Under The Affordable Care Act Really Free?

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:57:08 GMT

Are Those “Free” Checkups Under The Affordable Care Act Really Free?

The December 23rd deadline for those signing up for coverage directed under the U.S. government’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) is looming just days away. That’s when those that need to have healthcare coverage not provided privately or by an employer need to be signed up and plan chosen.

One of the leading features of the Affordable Care Act is that all American covered under plans managed through the Act will have “free” checkups. But what exactly does this mean and will those checkups be actually free?

A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine estimated that 44.4 million Americans spend about $8 billion on annual checkups. And once the ACA if fully implemented, an estimated 30 million previously uninsured Americans will now be eligible for annual checkups. Even in conservative estimates, that means billions in costs will now be shifted to insurance providers who are all but certain to pass along those costs right back to consumers in the form of higher premiums.

Plus, there are some experts who claim that routine doctor visits will be far from “free” depending on the annual deductible included in one’s plan. And then there are routine co-payments and laboratory blood work fees that vary depending on someone’s individual plan.

Still, the counterpoint to all of this is that routine annual checkups are cost-effective because preventive medicine helps cut down on future health costs.

But most doctors say that not everyone needs a physical every year. And a recent New York Times report finds that “arguments against the annual physical for all adults have been fueled by a growing number of studies that failed to find a medical benefit.” The Times points to a recent Danish study which found no discernible benefit over time for those who received annual checkups versus those who did not.

So, who should get annual physical exams? Most doctors agree, people over 50, and anyone who has experienced prolonged pain or similar symptoms. But for everyone else, an over-reliance on doctor visits may not amount to much more than needlessly handing over money to insurance companies.

And regardless of whether or not you need that annual checkup, someone is picking up the bill.

'Tis The Season For Medical Deductibles To Be Used

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:07:55 GMT

'Tis The Season For Medical Deductibles To Be Used

Many people have reached their insurance medical deductibles for the year, which means they can receive healthcare at a much lower out of pocket cost. For many people, the end of the year is the best time to take care of healthcare issues that have been lingering.

The sore back, the hurting knee, achy neck that patients try to ignore should be checked out before 2014 if you want to save money. This is because many people have reached their insurance deductibles for this year, which means they can receive healthcare at a much lower out of pocket cost.

For many people, insurance deductibles reset at the beginning of the calendar year. If a deductible has been reached for 2013, now is the time to schedule any imaging services. It will cost them much less out of pocket if they do this now instead of waiting until next year.

In addition, health savings accounts (HSAs) do not roll over in many instances. For individuals that utilize these accounts, money not used in 2013 will not be available for use in 2014. Many patients this time of year take advantage of HSA funds before the money is lost.

Fox Valley Imaging is a freestanding facility where our services often cost far less than our local competitors. Call us at (630) 416-1300 to schedule a diagnostic test today.

Video Games for the 60+ Crowd: Building Brain Power

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:07:45 GMT

Video Games for the 60+ Crowd: Building Brain Power

Okay, this is too fun to not report on. As the value of video games debate rages on from age-appropriateness to content rating, to social skills impact… Parents are often very concerned about their young ones spending time at the gaming console.

But for a recent study published by the science journal Nature, the gaming audience was shifted… to those aged 60 and older. Creating a game that’s engaging and compelling for a generation that wasn’t raised on computers was interesting and challenging for the brain scientists at the University of California, San Francisco.

Brain scientists, you say? Yes, this study wasn’t done to measure entertainment, but rather to measure brain maintenance and improvement. As it turns out, age doesn’t just bring wisdom but the occasional “senior moment” when you can’t remember what you just opened the refrigerator door to get. To reconcile that problem and others like a decline in the ability to multi-task, brain exercises were introduced in the form of gaming.

As it turns out, the effects have been positive. Brainpower went up with the ever-increasing gaming challenges… and the young at heart had a good time too.

But gaming isn’t the only way to a better brain. Physical exercise and other forms of mental stimulation have been shown to have great effects as well. So just as you should at any age, have fun, elevate your heart rate on a regular basis and perhaps keep picking up some good books while you’re at it.

Though the next time the kids are fighting over the Xbox controllers, just give them to Grandma. Problem solved.

Sitting Is The New Smoking

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:07:39 GMT

Sitting Is The New Smoking

As radiologists, we spend far too much time every day reading back injuries, so many of which are preventable. One simple solution: Take a break from sitting down so much!

It can seem nearly impossible to convert some sedentary jobs into standing ones based on office policies and equipment availabilities. In order to manage a situation that IS “unavoidable,” there are some ways to fight back. According to a recent article in the LA Times, getting up and moving around on regular intervals can do wonders.

The list of painful results from a lifestyle of consistent sitting has lead to the expression “sitting is the new smoking.” That is to say, it’s too common and most people who do it somehow consider themselves the exception to the rule when they are, in fact, demonstrating the rule.

There’s a simple trick for measuring the impact of sitting on your life. On a ten-point scale (ten being “easily accomplished” and one being “no way!”, can you raise and lower yourself to sitting cross-legged using your legs alone? Kudos to any woman who can score a 10 in heels!

Armed with this knowledge about your legs, spine and general health, we hope you’ll rethink your sitting to standing ratio and enjoy better health. Give yourself a little test (but you don’t have to do it in heels) and make yourself a goal often. Happy standing to you!

Using CT To Scan For Lung Cancer

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 07:07:33 GMT

Using CT To Scan For Lung Cancer

New England Journal of Medicine on May 22nd, the National Lung Screening Trial had good news to report: Through the use of low-dose computed tomography, doctors were able to recognize lung cancer earlier and more often than through traditional chest x-ray.

The initial phases of the study, published in 2011, showed a 20% reduction in mortality among patients diagnosed with lung cancer. This is credited to the fact that twice as many early stage cancers were discovered using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) than chest x-ray (CXR).

This most recent finding of the study specifically shows that LDCT discovers lung cancers more often than CXR. This is very good news for those at high risk for lung cancer – earlier and improved detection means expediting the process of healing and hopefully recovery.

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery recommends annual LDCT for specific high-risk groups, specifically North Americans meeting any of the following:

aged 55 to 79 years old with a history of 30 pack-years* of smoking
long-term lung cancer survivors up through the age of 79
those with a 20 pack-year history, starting at age 50 if there is an “additional cumulative risk of developing cancer of 5% or greater over the following 5 years.”

*A “pack-year” number is derived from multiplying the number of packs smoked per day times the number of years smoked – so 30 pack years could be smoking 1 pack a day for 30 years, or 2 packs a day for 15 years.

If your physician orders a CT scan to detect possible lung cancer, consider Fox Valley Imaging for the procedure. Our clean, modern facility is easy to find, has plenty of parking and our technicians and radiologist have extensive experience and a kind bedside manner. Call us at (630) 416-1300 to schedule an appointment.

How Does A DEXA Scan Measure Bone Density?

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 06:51:15 GMT

How Does A DEXA Scan Measure Bone Density?

Dual Energy X-ray Absortiometry, or DEXA scanning, is currently the most widely used method to measure bone mineral density. It has become the most widely used method for measuring bone mineral density for several reasons.

When compared with radiographic absortiometry or single energy x-ray absortiometry, DEXA scanning more precisely documents small changes in bone mass and is also more flexible since it can be used to examine both the spine and the extremities. A scan of the spine, hip or the total body requires only one, two or four minutes respectively.

Qualitative computed tomography (QCT) is the only technique that can directly measure bone density and volume but can distinguish trabecular from cortical bone. DEXA scanning is less expensive, exposes the patient to less radiation and is more sensitive and accurate at measuring subtle changes in bone density over time or in response to drug therapy than is QCT.

Studies using DEXA scanning have shown that people with osteoporosis have substantially lower bone density measurements than normal, age-matched people. Bone mineral density is widely accepted as a good indicator of bone strength.

A DEXA scanner is a machine that produces two X-ray beams, each with different energy levels. One beam is high energy while the other is low energy. The amount of X-rays that pass through the bone is measured for each beam. This will vary depending on the thickness of the bone. Based on the difference between the two beams, the bone density can be measured.

A DEXA scan report compares the patient’s bone mineral density values with those of young normal patient (T score) and with age matched normal patient (Z score). By comparing a patient’s bone density against there peers, a low score indicates there may be a reason other than age related bone loss.

At present, DEXA scanning focuses on two main areas — the hip and spine. Although osteoporosis involves the whole body, measurements of BMD at one site can be predictive of fractures at other sites. Scanning generally takes 10 to 20 minutes to complete and is painless and noninvasive.

If your physician has ordered a bone density test or DEXA scan, consider Fox Valley Imaging for the procedure. Our clean, modern facility is easy to find, has plenty of parking and our technicians and radiologist have extensive experience and a kind bedside manner. Call us at (630) 416-1300 to schedule an appointment.

What is Bone Densitonomy?

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 06:46:02 GMT

What Is Bone Densitonomy?

What is Bone Densitonomy? Osteoporosis is both preventable and treatable, but can’t be treated unless you know you have it or are at risk for it. A simple bone density test with a bone densitometer will tell you if you are at risk.

Using a densitometer in a non-invasive technique, osteoporosis can be detected early and a course of treatment can be established.

The examination measures the amount of bone mineral content in specific areas of your body, including the spine, hip and forearm, and in the total body. Until recently, evaluating bone density using conventional x-ray systems did not reveal a potential problem until a patient had lost 25% to 30% of their bone density.

With this highly sensitive densitometer, patients at risk can be identified at a much early state in just a few minutes. The procedure can also evaluate response to treatment so that your physician will know whether a therapy is effective or if the approach to treatment needs to be modified.

A radiologist will review the results and asses the risk factors. As the test is repeated over time, your physician can track your rate of bone loss. Should your bone density be too low – or decreases at an abnormally fast rate – you may be at risk for osteoporosis. Changes in diet, exercise habits and/or medication can prevent further deterioration of your body’s bones.

Risk factors affecting the decision to have a bone density test

Your physician may recommend a bone density test if you have a bone fracture, are considering long-term estrogen replacement therapy or have multiple risk factors, including:

being a female
having a small or thin body frame
are of advanced age
are experiencing an early menopause
have a family history of osteoporosis
are a smoker
are suffering from anorexia nervosa or bulimia
are lactose intolerant
are a male with low testosterone
imbibe alcohol frequently
have a low calcium diet
have a limited-activity lifestyle

What to expect

A bone density test is quick, painless and non-invasive. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes. You will lie down, fully-clothed on a table while our radiology technician positions you for the test. A small dose of radiation (equivalent to about 1/20th of that received during a normal chest x-ray) is emitted through a beam so focused that the technician can sit next to the examination table to monitor the procedure.

If your physician has ordered a bone density test, consider Fox Valley Imaging for the procedure. Our clean, modern facility is easy to find, has plenty of parking and our technicians and radiologist have extensive experience and a kind bedside manner. Call us at (630) 416-1300 to schedule an appointment.

The Cost Of American Healthcare

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 06:39:45 GMT

The Cost Of American Healthcare

Healthcare insurance is a hot topic right now – and a very divisive one in certain areas. We’re going to steer clear of politics and talk about people getting medical care, period.

In other words: are we going to the doctor when we need to? As it turns out, not so much. Recently published by the Commonwealth Fund, a private foundation that aims to promote a high performing health care system:

“A 2013 survey conducted in 11 countries finds that U.S. adults are significantly more likely than their counterparts to forgo health care because of the cost, to have difficulty paying for care even when they have insurance, and to deal with time-consuming insurance issues.”

As we said, insurance aside, affordability is key to getting the help we need, when we need it. As doctors, we find this cause for great concern. In fact, we take it to heart in our own practice at Fox Valley Imaging Center.

We don’t want people to miss out on medical care. We love taking care of people — we get the opportunity to do this through our patients, but if people aren’t going to the doctor when they need to… that’s bad news.

So, where do we fit in? Where do you fit into this conversation?

We made several key commitments with our clinic:

Patient care is the top of the list. We want to provide the best service possible with the best technologies available. There will be no sacrificing care for the sake of saving a dollar.
Also, affordability is integral to providing patient care. Without affordability, there would be no patients. We’ve looked at our local competition and made the commitment to provide the most affordable imaging care possible. The fiscal threshold for getting needs met should be as low as possible.
Last but not least, we strongly believe in transparency. This means the cost of our services is available upon request. We are straightforward in our billing (many other imaging centers and hospitals separate the cost of the test from the cost of the radiologist’s reading of it into — surprise — a second bill). Try calling a hospital for an estimate on the cost of a CT scan. Many are not even able to provide the number. We find this unacceptable.

Now, for you:

According to this recent study, you may be among those who aren’t getting the care you need because of cost. It’s time that changes — you need to know that the help you need may be more affordable than you think. Make the commitment to yourself and your loved ones that you will pursue care when needed.
When it comes to medical providers, you have a choice. This is SO important. There are multiple providers for many disciplines. Just because you are told you go to hospital X for your MRI doesn’t mean that is the only place you can go. Look into your options — and please know you have them.
And most importantly, shop around. Look for the best quality care AND the best price. You might be surprised to learn that there is an option for you that is affordable and has great doctors who have gone the extra distance for special field-specific accreditations.

The big takeaway here is this: we want to empower you with the knowledge that health care may be more affordable than you think. And knowing that means you may go to the doctor when needed. We want you to celebrate and live your best possible health.

Diabetes And Obesity: There Are Steps You Can Take

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 06:35:31 GMT

Diabetes And Obesity: There Are Steps You Can Take

November is American Diabetes Month. Diabetes takes a toll on those who suffer from it directly, but the concerns about it resonate among those who don’t have it themselves.

Diabetes has modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors (just like breast cancer). It can run in families, but it can also jump in when health habits are poor. Just as we are vigilant with our own individual health, we can have a role in helping others. Parents, especially, can have a profound impact on their child’s likelihood of developing diabetes.

What’s shouldn’t come as a surprise is that the best health practices to reduce the risk of one disease can reduce the risk of others. For instance, exercising, not smoking and limiting alcohol intake all reduce breast cancer risk. But they also reduce the risk of diabetes. Hopefully, parents aren’t wrestling with their kids’ alcohol or tobacco issues, but they can certainly play a strong role in diet and exercise. And this all starts with the very, very young.

Obesity one of the biggest culprits when it comes to endangering children’s health. With a high BMI, they are more likely to get diabetes (but there are things you can do!).

The good news is that people ARE taking action. In states all over the country, there is indeed a MOVEment going — to get people up and about. It’s making a difference! There are so many ways to put yourself and your loved ones on the path to better health. You can even start with a walk.

How To Choose The Right Diagnostic Imaging Center For Your Needs

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 06:29:54 GMT

How To Choose The Right Diagnostic Imaging Center For Your Needs

Many people don’t know that when their physician instructs them to have a medical diagnostic scan or test, the decision as to which facility to go to is largely in their own. Certainly, you should consult with your physician as to his preferences and consider his medical advice, but when it comes right down to it, it is your decision as to where to seek care.

The latest technology, reliable results, compassionate care, and highly qualified staff are all excellent reasons to choose Fox Valley Imaging for your imaging needs. But why settle for a great choice when you can have the very best?

There are four primary reasons why you might want to consider Fox Valley Imaging for your diagnostic and testing needs:

We can offer same-day results, for most scans and tests.
We offer lower exam costs than local hospitals. The exam or test and radiologist interpretation are included in one bill.
We are conveniently located and easy to find, offer minimal waiting time, are open hours convenient to your schedule and have accessible parking.
Our staff includes on-site Board-Certified Radiologists and registered technologists.

No two patients are exactly alike. That is why Fox Valley Imaging tailors every exam to meet the specific needs of each individual patient. We gather clinical information about each patient prior to their appointment. The radiologist reviews the records and the referring physician’s request to customize the exam or preventative screening that best treats that patient’s symptoms based on their health history. Our exam studies are detailed and extensive, ensuring all health screenings are done correctly the first time. Because of this individual attention, physicians receive the best possible images, patients never pay for services they do not need, and few additional scans are ever required.

While some imaging centers in the Chicagoland area only offer one or two services, Fox Valley Imaging offers many, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT — formerly known as a CAT Scan), Obstetric/Gynecological and General Ultrasound (Sonography), Digital Mammography (breast screening), General Radiology, and Bone Densitometry (DEXA) — all under one roof.

When selecting an imaging center, we believe that the way we treat our patients is just as important as the accuracy of the images and the qualifications of our staff. We understand the effects that stress and anxiety have on a patient’s well-being, and our goal is always to make the best impression possible – whether we are creating an image of a patient’s heart or helping to put their mind at ease. Our mission is to provide unsurpassed patient care, the most advanced diagnostic imaging technology, and the highest standards of quality.

Personal touches, such as refreshingly furnished changing areas and private waiting areas for diagnostic studies, can help patients feel more relaxed in our facilities. Family members or relatives will be allowed to accompany patients in exam rooms whenever possible. When necessary, sedation is available for MRIs and CTs, a service not offered by most imaging centers in the Chicagoland area, but one that makes exams more comfortable for many of our patients.

We understand the impact a prompt and accurate diagnosis has on the decisions our patients make. Through the speed of digital imaging, the days of waiting weeks for test results are over. Our web portal allows authenticated users like your physician to access Fox Valley Imaging images. Results can now be transmitted to referring physicians more quickly and easily than ever. These systems enable physicians to share patient information and improve the accuracy of diagnoses by comparing their studies, reports, and results with others in the network.

Consider Fox Valley Imaging as a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services. Appointments can be made by calling 630.416.1300.

MRI: A Guided Tour

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 06:27:03 GMT

MRI: A Guided Tour

MRI scanners, like X-rays and CT scanners, are basically machines doctors use to take pictures of your insides so that they can figure out what’s ailing you. But MRI doesn’t involve ionizing radiation, as do X-rays and CT scans.

Rather, MRI takes advantage of something you have plenty of in your body: water. It is far more flexible than X-rays and CT scans can generate three-dimensional images in any orientation and at any depth in the body. The upshot is that MRI, for most applications, is far superior to other imaging tools in providing non-invasive images (and even chemical information) at high resolution.

While X-rays remain useful for looking at bones, MRI scans are the diagnostic tool of choice for soft tissue — organs, ligaments, the circulatory system and (as you know) the spinal column and cord. They help physicians identify multiple sclerosis, tumors, tendonitis, strokes, and many other conditions.

Let’s start with a little tour of the metallic cylinder surrounding you (it’s called a bore, technically). You’re in the center of a tremendous magnet, weighing tens of thousands of pounds and differing from the little magnets on your fridge in two fundamental ways. First, those fridge decorations are permanent magnets made of alloys. The MRI magnet surrounding you, on the other hand, is a superconducting magnet; it conducts electricity, thereby creating a magnetic field. Secondly, your fridge magnet has a fraction of the power of the one you’re in.

By now the technologist in the control room, who is talking you through the exam via an intercom, has started to place you into the main magnetic field in your scanner. The field is running horizontally through the bore from your head to your toes (or vice versa, depending on your position). Because your spine is what she’s interested in, you’re being positioned so that part of your back is in the middle (or isocenter) of the field.

Now that the magnet has gotten the hydrogen protons lined up at attention, the scanner is ready to subject them to the next step, the one that will result in an actual signal.

You’ve probably been wondering about that coil the technologist placed under your back. Essentially, it’s a radio transceiver, also called an RF coil, which can communicate with your hydrogen atoms via radio frequency (RF) waves.

Your technologist is using that coil to send RF pulses at your spine. They are precisely timed (taking into account the type of tissue targeted and the fact that just the hydrogen atoms are of interest) to achieve the effect we’re about to describe.

The signal gets turned into an electric current, which the scanner digitizes. Different types of MRIs display this data differently, but in any case you get a variety of shades of grey that reflect the different densities. In some scans, the weaker the signal, the darker that part of the image will be. So bone will be fairly dark, while fat will be light.

Believe it or not, MRI scans can display more than 250 distinct shades of grey, each reflecting slight variations in tissue density or water content. It is in those subtle shades that radiologists unlock the secrets of the tissues. For example, abnormal tissue, such as a brain tumor, will look different than the normal tissue surrounding it. The technologist and radiologist have the ability to alter imaging parameters (like the timings of the RF pulse and gradients) to emphasize areas of injury or disease or to acquire higher image resolutions.

Myths And Facts About Joint Pain And Arthritis

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 06:24:23 GMT

Myths And Facts About Joint Pain And Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, one of the most common forms of arthritis, results from wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joints, typically after an injury or with advancing age. More than 27 million Americans have osteoarthritis.

Also called degenerative joint disease, Osteoarthritis usually develops over years, and symptoms include pain, stiffness, tenderness, a limited range of motion and may cause a grating sensation during movement. The pain usually is worse after activity and ranges in severity from person to person.

Scientists aren’t 100% certain what causes most types of arthritis or why some people develop it and others do not. Researchers are, however, studying three major factors to determine the role they play in developing arthritis: genetics, lifestyle and life events, and obesity.

Risk factors for arthritis include:

Gender
Age
Weight
Work factors

There are several myths about osteoarthritis:

Myth: All joint pain is arthritis.

Fact: Other conditions, such as tendonitis, bursitis or other soft-tissue injuries also cause joint pain. Evaluation by a rheumatologist will lead to the right diagnosis and treatment

Myth: Rain and damp weather worsen arthritis.

Fact: Although many believe that a twinge in the knee or elbow can predict rain, there’s no scientific evidence that dampness or humidity intensifies arthritis symptoms.

Myth: Take it easy if your arthritis acts up.

Fact: Regular, sensible exercise actually may help your arthritis, although arthritic joints sometimes need a short period of rest followed by a gradual return to activity. It’s important to maintain your strength and range of motion in your joints. Your doctor can guide you and suggest an exercise that’s gentler on the joints.

A diagnosis of arthritis doesn’t mean the end of an active lifestyle. In treating osteoarthritis, the goal is to help patients learn to manage all aspects of pain and to increase their joint mobility and strength. It is recommended that patients with osteoarthritis collaborate with their physicians to find what works best for them.

How Does An X-ray Work?

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 06:19:58 GMT

How Does An X-ray Work?

X-ray technology was invented completely by accident. In 1895, a German physicist named Wilhelm Roentgen made the discovery while experimenting with electron beams in a gas discharge tube. Röntgen noticed that a fluorescent screen near the tube was glowing, even though the tube was insulated with cardboard. Since no light was passing through to make the screen glow, some other previously unknown form of radiation or “x-ray” must have been responsible. Röntgen noted that the ray passed through other materials as well, including human flesh! In fact, in discovering x-radiation, Röntgen also discovered its major application: imaging. The first x-ray ever produced is of Röntgen’s wife’s hand.

The point about x-rays is that, unlike visible light, they pass straight through stuff, including the stuff that people are made of. So, if you shine a beam of x-rays at someone, and put a piece of film on the other side of them, you produce a shadow of the inside of their body.

This only works at all because the different tissues that make up our bodies absorb x-rays to different extents. The problem is, though, that we consist largely of water, so most of our soft bits look much the same as far as x-rays are concerned. In fact, there are really only three tissues that are sufficiently different from each other in terms of x-ray absorption to show up on an x-ray film: bone, air and soft tissue.

It’s the differences in those three tissues that actually make x-rays useful. In our body, soft tissue cannot absorb the high energy ray and it passes straight through. The high dense material, like bone made of calcium, do absorb the radiation. The rays that pass through to the film detector, which works much like plain camera film. The black areas are the exposed areas, representing the rays that passed through the soft tissue, while the white areas are the unexposed areas, where the rays were absorbed by tissue.

The patient is positioned between the x-ray machine and the film. It is the x ray technician’s job to properly align the patient in space in order to capture the appropriate 2-D plane. Areas not of interest should be appropriately shielded. After the beam is activated, the film is shown to the radiologist. Digital film is often used so that the image can be viewed directly on a computer monitor without true film being utilized.

And by the way, the letter “X” comes from their initial discovery, when they were an unknown form of radiation and thus given the moniker ‘”X” to indicate “unknown.”

Tips For Feeling — And Being — Healthier This Winter

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 02:49:18 GMT

Tips For Feeling — And Being — Healthier This Winter

Feeling Healthier – Autumn may have just begun, but winter is around the corner and will be upon us before you know it. As the weather turns cold and days get shorter, we tend to become especially aware of how horrible we are feeling. Well, here are some tips to think about as winter approaches.

Dry eyes? Eat more seafood like salmon and trout. These omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods can help the body to produce more tears.

Stressed out? Soak in a bath with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Its fresh, sweet, floral, herbaceous aroma is soothing and refreshing.

Chest congestion? Drink ginger! Try ginger ale or this home remedy recipe: Pour two cups of boiling water over a one inch piece of peeled, grated ginger. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Add a pinch or two of cayenne or red pepper to the water, allow it to cool a bit and drink!

Have a sweet tooth? Eat bitter food instead. Olives and cooked greens help to rid you of your sugar craving.

Want to stay heart healthy? Eat potassium. People who eat high potassium diets tend to be less prone to high blood pressure, which can help to keep the heart healthy. Eat foods such as bananas, cantaloupe and oranges.

Dry skin? Add avocado to your diet; they are high in vitamin E which helps promote healthy skin.

Cold feet? Sprinkle some cayenne pepper in your socks. It helps by increasing circulation.

Cost vs. Convenience: What If You Could Have Both?

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 02:46:42 GMT

Cost vs. Convenience: What If You Could Have Both?

Which would you rather have in your health care: convenience or low cost? Oftentimes, when choosing one, the other is sacrificed. If you have ever had an x-ray, MRI or CT scan, you are well aware of the expense involved. However, choosing to get your scans done outside of a hospital could save you big bucks.

Hospital radiology departments can generate a lot of traffic for the perceived convenience of location and as a one-stop shop for medical care. However, there is no shortage of articles that will tell you that diagnostic imaging is more expensive at a hospital than the same services cost at a freestanding imaging center.

Patients seeking the most affordable imaging services should be aware that hospitals and their affiliated facilities are usually more expensive than freestanding outpatient centers, like Fox Valley Imaging. This is in part because hospitals are allowed to charge Medicare and most other commercial insurers a facility fee. It can cost up to 1/3 less to have an imaging exam at a freestanding imaging facility.

Sometimes we tend to trust the old adage “you get what you pay for” and believe that paying more means we receive higher quality. When it comes to imaging pricing though, higher cost does not automatically denote higher quality.

If hospital services are not of significantly higher quality, why are they so much more expensive than freestanding imaging centers? Some factors include the power of certain brands over others, the cost of 24 hour operations versus standard Monday through Friday business hours, as well as the ability to charge whatever price they want, thanks in part to the lack of price transparency and the lack of comparison shopping done by consumers for medical procedures.

Along with sacrificing lower price, people using a hospital’s services tend to experience longer wait times and receive less personalized, quality customer service than independent imaging centers offer. Much of the time, it’s a numbers game for big health networks and hospitals. They get so much volume that they have to rush patients in and out, rather than focusing on customer service, because there are so many customers waiting to go next.

In essence, by going to a hospital, you’re paying more for a longer wait period and lower quality customer service. Independent imaging centers, like Fox Valley Imaging, on average feature lower-priced procedures, procedures that use the same technology of the same high quality that yield the same results of the hospital radiology scans. Plus, you will receive a greater focus on providing exemplary customer service.

In addition to offering a better customer experience, independent imaging centers can provide a better experience for the referring physician’s office.

Why Might I Need A Knee MRI scan?

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 02:42:19 GMT

Why Might I Need A Knee MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee is done to:

Check for the cause of unexplained knee pain or the knee giving out for no reason.
Find problems in the knee joint, such as arthritis, bone tumors or infection, or damaged cartilage, meniscus, ligaments or tendons.
Find out if knee arthroscopy is needed.

MRI may also find a bone fracture when X-rays and other tests do not give a clear answer. MRI is done more commonly than other tests to check for certain bone and joint problems.

There are no known harmful effects from the strong magnetic field used for MRI. But the magnet is very powerful.

Reasons you may not be able to have a knee MRI scan or why the results may not be helpful include:

Metal devices in your leg from previous surgery. These may make the MRI pictures blurry and prevent your doctor from seeing what is wrong with your knee.
Pregnancy. An MRI test usually is not done during pregnancy.
Medical devices that use electronics, such as a pacemaker or medicine infusion pump. The MRI magnet may cause problems with these devices.
If you are not able to remain still during the test.
Obesity. A person who is very overweight may not fit into the opening of some standard MRI machines.

The radiologist may discuss preliminary results of the MRI with you right after the test. Complete results are usually available for your doctor in 1 to 2 days. “Normal” results of a knee MRI scan can include:

The ligaments, meniscus, tendons, bones, and joints look normal in size, shape and location.
No growths, such as tumors, are present.
No broken bones (fractures), extra fluid or loose bodies are present.
No signs of inflammation or infection in bones, joints or soft tissues are present.

Abnormal results might include:

Bones show an injury or a fracture. The MRI also may show a collection of fluid, which could mean an infection is present.
Ligament or meniscus tears are present.
Tendon tears are present. The MRI may also show a thickening, meaning surgery or a tear you had in the past or repeated stress.
Growths, such as tumors, are present.
Changes common to arthritis are present.

If your physician instructs you to have a knee MRI done, consider Fox Valley Imaging as a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services.

Why Do Doctors Use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 02:38:11 GMT

Why Do Doctors Use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to evaluate body tissue. It can be used to assess injury or disease in tissues, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and blood vessels. For example, it can be used to evaluate the lumbar region of your back for bone degeneration. MRI uses radio waves, so there is no danger of exposure to radiation as there is with x-rays.

The only way to see inside a human body better than with an MRI is to cut it open. MRIs are ideal for:

Visualizing shoulder injuries
Diagnosing multiple sclerosis
Diagnosing infections in the brain, spine or joints
Diagnosing tendonitis
Visualizing torn ligaments in the wrist, knee, and ankle
Evaluating masses in the body’s soft tissues
Diagnosing strokes in their earliest stages
Evaluating bone tumors, cysts and bulging or herniated discs
Diagnosing tumors of the pituitary gland and brain

Advantages to the system also include the fact that MRI contrast materials (dyes) have a very low incidence of side effects. MRIs also have the ability to take images in any plane. CT scans are limited to one plane — the axial plane (If you think of a loaf-of-bread, the axial plane is how the loaf is sliced normally). An MRI system can make axial images as well as images in a sagittal plane (as if it were slicing bread lengthwise) and coronally (like the layers of a cake) or, for that matter, any degree in between. It can do all of this without the patient having to move.

Fox Valley Imaging’s services include fluoroscopy/arthrography, high field MRI/MRA, digital general x-rays, ultrasound, multidetector CT/CTA and DEXA. Consider Fox Valley Imaging as a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services. Appointments can be made by calling 630.416.1300.

The Importance of An Annual Mammogram

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 02:32:51 GMT

The Importance of an Annual Mammogram

A mammogram is a specific type of breast exam used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women. This quick medical exam uses a noninvasive X-ray targeted to each breast, producing pictures that your doctor can use to identify and treat any abnormal areas, possibly indicating the presence of cancer.

Annual mammograms can detect cancer early — when it is most treatable. Mammograms find between 85 and 90 percent of breast cancers. In fact, mammograms show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.

Mammograms can also prevent the need for extensive treatment for advanced cancers and improve chances of breast conservation. Current guidelines from the American College of Radiology, the American Cancer Society, and the Society for Breast Imaging recommend that women receive annual mammograms starting at age 40 — even if they have no symptoms or family history of breast cancer.

The single greatest magnifier of the risk of contracting breast cancer is age. At age 25, your chances are one in 19,608. At age 50, your chances are one in 50. At age 65, your chances are one in 24. And your overall lifetime risk is one in 8. Another strong risk factor is a personal or family history of breast cancer. Other factors include:

First menstrual period at an early age (before age 12)
Late menopause (after age 50)
First child after age 30
Never having children

Talk with your physician about a diagnostic mammogram if you have breast implants, or if you have any of these symptoms:

Lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm
Marked asymmetry of your breasts
Changes in the veins on your breasts
Unexplained discoloration of your skin (redness or bruising)
Shiny skin, or large pores
Skin ulcers
Dimpling, puckering, retraction of the skin or areola
Fixed inversion of the nipple, which is a change from a previous examination
Scaling, crusting or drainage of the nipple or areola
Localized breast pain

Generally, a written report from your screening mammogram will be mailed to you and/or your physician. Reports for diagnostic mammograms are sent only to physicians. Then each patient is notified personally by her physician about the results.

Every woman needs mammography at an interval that is deemed appropriate for her age and risk factors. Remember, even if a breast lump is discovered by physical exam or mammography, more than 80 percent of them are noncancerous. So, the key defense for every woman is early detection.

What is an MRI

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 02:26:28 GMT

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MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging — or MRI — is a test that uses a diagnostic magnetic field to pulse radio waves through the body to make pictures of organs and other internal structures. During an MRI test, the body is placed inside a special machine that contains a strong magnet (thus, these machines are usually very large). Pictures from an MRI scan are digital and can be stored on a computer for examination and diagnosis.

MRIs are performed to find problems such as tumors, internal bleeding, injuries, blood vessel diseases, and infections. In some cases, contrast material may be used during an MRI scan to show structures more clearly.

An MRI scan can be done for:

Head. MRI scans can look at the brain for tumors, aneurysms, bleeding in the brain, nerve injury and other problems, such as those related to strokes. It can also detect potential problems with the eyes, optic nerves, ears, and auditory nerves.

Chest. An MRI of the chest can examine the heart and its structures such as valves and coronary blood vessels. It can also show if the lungs are damaged. MRIs of the chest can be used to look for signs of breast or lung cancer.

Blood vessels. Using an MRI to examine blood vessels and the flow of blood through them is called a magnetic resonance angiography or MRA. This procedure can find problems with the veins and arteries, such as a blocked vessel, aneurysm or torn lining.

Abdomen and pelvis. MRIs can detect problems in the organs and other structures of the middle of the body, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder. It is used to find tumors, bleeding, infection, and blockage. In men, it can be used to look at the prostate while in women, the uterus and ovaries can be examined.

Bones and joints. Arthritis, bone marrow problems, bone tumors, cartilage problems, torn ligaments and tendons, and infections can be checked with the MRI. It may also detect if a bone is broken when x-ray results are not clear.

Spine. An MRI scan can detect disc and nerves in the spine for conditions such as spinal stenosis, disc bulges and spinal tumors.

An MRI test is usually done by an MRI technologist. The pictures taken are interpreted by a radiologist. In most cases, your doctor will very likely examine the scans as well. The radiologist may discuss initial results with you right after the test. Complete results are usually ready for your doctor in one or two days.

Fox Valley Imaging provides MRI and MRA services to our patients. If your physician requests that you have an MRI, consider Fox Valley Imaging as a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services. Appointments can be made by calling 630.416.1300.

Tips To Prevent Injuries In School Sports

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 02:21:42 GMT

Tips to prevent injuries in school sports

More children are competing in sports and activities than ever before. Being active is a great way for children and adolescents to keep their body fit and feel good about themselves. However, there are some important injury prevention tips that parents should be aware of to prevent or minimize injuries and promote a safe and healthy experience for their child. All sports and physical activities come with a risk of injury. In general, the more contact in a sport or activity, the greater the risk of a traumatic injury. However, most injuries in young athletes are due to overuse of a part of their body.

Most injuries occur in ligaments (which connect bones together), tendons (which connect muscles to bones) and the muscles themselves. Stress fractures can also occur from overuse or strenuous exertion.

The most frequent sports injuries are sprains (injuries to ligaments), strains (injuries to muscles) and stress fractures (injuries to bones). Alls can be caused when abnormal stress is placed on tendons, joints, bones or muscles.

To reduce the risk or sports- or activity-related injuries, consider these tips:

Take some time off. Plan with your children to have at least one day off a week from a sport or activity to allow their bodies to recover.

Wear the right equipment. Athletes should wear appropriate and properly fitted protective equipment such as pads, helmets, mouthpieces, faceguards, protective cups and eyewear. It is important for young athletes to understand that using protective gear will not make them invulnerable during dangerous or risky activities.

Strengthen muscles. Conditioning and warm-up exercises are important during practice and especially before being active to strengthen muscles used in sports or other activities.

Increase flexibility. Stretching before and after practices, games or activities can increase the body’s flexibility.

Use the proper technique. A good coach or advisor should teach a young athlete the proper technique to help prevent injury. This should be reinforced during the playing or activity season.

Take breaks. Rest periods during practices, games and activities can reduce the risk of injuries and give the body much needed time to moderate itself.

Stop any activity if there is pain. If the pain persists, seek medical attention.

Drink plenty of fluids. Everyone’s body requires liquids to fight off exhaustion, keep the organs functioning properly and to lubricate the body’s joints and other connective tissues. Be especially aware of high heat and humidity conditions.

For any sports- or activity-related injury, seek medical attention when necessary. Your child’s physician may require scans, x-rays and other medical diagnostics. Consider Fox Valley Imaging as a faster, more convenient and more economical alternative to a local hospital or other medical diagnostic services.

History of Fox Valley Imaging

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 01:38:23 GMT

History of Fox Valley Imaging

Welcome to Fox Valley Imaging Center. Almost fourteen years ago, I started my journey into the medical imaging field. As a Chemical engineer, I was fascinated with the NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance), and all it’s uses.

My first job out of college involved working with the NMR at Abbott Labs. I was responsible for the evaluation and analysis of organic samples gathered from different projects in the research and development department referred to as PPD. I worked under a super smart intellectual Chemist/Biochemist Dr. James McAlpine from Australia. He was the head of a large research department at Abbott, and had every right to be delegating all work, (especially the kind I was involved in) and enjoying the golf course, instead he spent time with me weekly going over NMR charts and teaching me how to analyze those complex frequency peaks and interpreting the data. I look back with fond memories of those times. As life has it’s funny twist and turns, I found myself years later working with the same technology accept this time I was not analyzing chemicals but actual people.

I have enjoyed working in the field of medicine tremendously. I believe that life is a learning journey, and we learn best when we listen to our patients and help them discover their path to health and happiness. I have spent the last fourteen years meeting people that come in to our center and getting to know them. That is the most fulfilling part of my work. I have had the privilege to work with some of the finest doctors in this area and consider many of them as close friends.

In collaboration with several local doctors, we have started an educational symposium that meets in our facility once a month for the single purpose of educating the public in the field of health-care. I will post notices in advance of the next symposium for any who are interested. Our goal is to empower individuals through education and access to resources that will improve their overall quality of life.

I hope you will check again in a week or so for my next blog. If you have any questions regarding the branch of radiology please send them to my attention and I will work hard to find you answers.

Best of health,

Dan Daghfal

MRI or Mammogram: Which is better?

Wed, 31 May 2023 22:11:31 GMT

MRI or Mammogram: Which is better?

A recent article appeared in the Chicago Tribune regarding using an MRI rather than a mammogram to detect breast cancer. The question was whether the MRI would catch the disease earlier. Mammograms aren’t perfect: they do use low doses of radiation to image the breast and they can miss some tumors. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is known to be more sensitive than mammography at detecting nearly all invasive cancers and a majority of in-situ (noninvasive) cancers. It certainly can find some tumors that mammography misses. And since MR uses a magnet to image the breast, it does not involve any radiation exposure....

The American Cancer Society recently recommended that any woman with a greater than 20-25% lifetime risk for breast cancer should consider undergoing screening with both mammography and breast MRI. This was based on the results of a recent study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine finding that of the 969 women who had already been diagnosed with cancer in one breast, the study found that in 3.1 percent of these women, MRI found cancer in the other breast that didn’t show up yet on mammogram. Although MR is more sensitive than mammography, there can be false positives with this technology which could lead to follow-up imaging and/or biopsies, revealing benign changes in the end. Since some of these false positives are related to normal hormonal fluctuations, it is important to perform this study at the correct time of the menstrual cycle.

Fox Valley Imaging now offers mammograms as one of the diagnostic tests we perform at our facility. Whether a mammogram or breast MRI, please consider us for your diagnostic needs.

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Arthritis In An Injured Ankle Joint

Wed, 24 May 2023 06:30:08 GMT

Arthritis In An Injured Ankle Joint

The ankle is one of the most important joints in the body since it plays a crucial role in proper walking. With arthritis, your ankle can become stiff and painful, and if left untreated, walking can become difficult or even impossible. As you get older you are more prone to developing arthritis in your ankles. This is particularly likely if you have injured your ankle at some point. To reduce the potential for painful and debilitating arthritis, it is important to properly care for an injured ankle joint. Doing so allows the joint to heal and become strong again. With the right care, you can enjoy pain-free walking.

Arthritis can occur almost anywhere in the body, including the back, neck, hands, legs, and feet. Osteoarthritis is the most commonly experienced form of this condition and is the result of years of wear and tear on your joints. Over time, the cartilage in your joints wears out, causing the painful symptoms of arthritis. Traumatic injuries to a joint, such as a broken bone or torn ligament, can also result in arthritis occurring later in life. Sometimes, even if you get the best medical treatment, you can still develop arthritis in a joint that has been injured. However, receiving proper care does make future problems less likely.

Another type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis. This is the result of a problem with your body’s immune system. The lining of your joints becomes inflamed and irritated. Most people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis tend to develop it in their feet and ankles at some point. If you are experiencing pain in your ankles or feet, it is important to have the area examined by a doctor. X-rays, bone scans, and MRIs may be used to examine the injured area. The results of these tests can then be used to determine whether or not you have arthritis. Arthritis can be treated in a number of different ways. For mild cases, your doctor may prescribe painkillers, such as ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatories. Steroid injections can also be used to provide relief from the painful inflammation of the joint. Physical therapy can also be used to strengthen the muscles around the joint to provide more support.

Make sure that you seek treatment for joint injuries as soon as possible. Do not ignore the pain and hope that it just goes away on its own. In many cases, doing so actually makes the problem worse. The sooner that you get treatment, the better your long-term prognosis will be. Maintaining good joint health is crucial if you want to stay active and mobile for as long as possible. Talk to your doctor right away if you are experiencing joint pain.