Cone Beam CT Imaging | Advanced Chiropractic Diagnostic in Brooklyn, NY

What is Cone Beam CT (CBCT) and 3D Spinal Imaging?

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a cutting-edge imaging technology that provides detailed, three-dimensional (3D) views of the upper cervical (neck) and lower cervical vertebrae of the spine. Unlike traditional X-rays, which provide only two-dimensional (2D) images, CBCT scans allow for comprehensive and accurate visualization of the spine’s structure, including alignment and bone density.

Why is viewing the upper neck in 3D so important?

Cone beam imaging has significantly transformed upper cervical chiropractic care by enhancing diagnostic capabilities and improving clinical outcomes. This advanced technology enables chiropractors to detect a wide range of issues, such as spinal degeneration, structural abnormalities, and upper cervical misalignments, with greater precision. Additionally, CBCT imaging allows for the evaluation of various related conditions, including airway problems, TMJ dysfunction, jaw rotations, and head tilts or imbalances, providing a comprehensive view of the upper cervical region and surrounding structures.

One of the key advantages of CBCT imaging is its reduced radiation exposure compared to traditional digital X-ray units. This makes it a safer option for both practitioners and patients while maintaining the high-quality imaging required for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. With its ability to offer a detailed, 3D perspective, CBCT technology has become an essential tool in optimizing upper cervical chiropractic care.

Radiation Exposure of CBCT:

A single CBCT scan results in approximately 237 microsieverts (µSv) of radiation.
This is equivalent to about 1/10th the radiation exposure of a standard 4-view cervical spine X-ray series.
Compared to a standard CT scan, CBCT typically uses much lower radiation doses, sometimes as little as 10% of the radiation of a conventional CT.

3D Spinal Imaging with CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) offers several key benefits over traditional X-rays and other imaging methods:

Less Radiation Exposure: CBCT typically uses a lower dose of radiation compared to conventional X-rays, making it safer for the patient while still providing high-quality imaging.
Superior Image Quality: Unlike 2D X-rays, CBCT provides 3D imaging, offering a more detailed and comprehensive view of the spine and surrounding structures. This allows for better visualization of complex anatomical features.
Variety of Viewing Angles: With 3D imaging, CBCT allows for a broader range of viewing angles. This flexibility helps in examining different structures from various perspectives, which is particularly useful for diagnosing issues that might not be visible in 2D imaging.
Smoother Client Experience: CBCT scans are quick and efficient, providing instant, high-resolution images. This not only improves patient comfort but also reduces wait times for results.
More Precise Clinical Recommendations: The enhanced detail and accuracy of CBCT imaging enable healthcare providers to make more informed and precise treatment decisions. This leads to better clinical outcomes by facilitating a more targeted approach to spinal health management.

Misalignment of the upper neck (cervical spine) can indeed cause a variety of symptoms due to its influence on nerve function, blood flow, and the alignment of the spine.
Here's a breakdown of how these symptoms may occur:

Neck pain: Misalignment can directly irritate or compress the nerves and muscles in the neck, causing localized pain or discomfort.
Headaches: Poor alignment in the upper neck, especially the cervical spine, can affect the nerves that extend into the head, leading to tension headaches or cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck).
Dizziness/Vertigo: Misalignment may impact blood flow to the brain or disrupt the vestibular system, leading to dizziness or a sensation of vertigo.
Numbness/Tingling: Compression of the nerves in the upper neck can lead to sensations of numbness or tingling, often radiating down the arms or into the hands.
Shoulder/Arm pain: Misalignment of the cervical spine can irritate or pinch nerves that travel into the shoulder, arms, and hands, causing radiating pain or discomfort.
Back pain: While misalignment of the upper neck may primarily affect the neck and head, it can create a ripple effect that causes strain and pain in the upper back or even the lower back due to compensatory posture.
Ringing in the ears (Tinnitus): Pressure on the nerves in the upper neck may affect the auditory pathways or the blood flow to the inner ear, leading to ringing or other noises in the ears.
Facial pain: The trigeminal nerve, responsible for facial sensations, can be affected by upper neck misalignment, leading to facial pain, often in the form of headaches or neuralgia.
Muscle spasms: Muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back may go into spasms as they attempt to compensate for improper alignment, leading to tightness and pain.

If you or someone you know has been struggling with issues related to the head or neck, it may be worth considering a visit to Compassion Chiropractic Office,

(347) 425-9929. We are focused on the alignment of the upper neck, specifically the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, which play a crucial role in the overall health of the spine and nervous system.

To learn more about how we can help you, schedule a consultation .