For fractures, dislocations, bone diseases and also tumors or infections assessment, X-rays have proved helpful. The radiation passes through the body and makes possible the producing of images of dense objects like the bones, that appear white on the x-ray film. The less dense tissues are more difficult to see, they appear more like gray areas.

Combining the x-rays and modern technology, the CT scan (a computed tomography) solves this problem by providing clearer, detailed images of the spine and the internal organs. In most cases, to make the structures more visible, a contrast dye must be injected into the blood. The CT scan is useful in diagnosing various bones and organs conditions.

As for the patient's safety, the radiation risk to different parts of the body is variable. Every tissue and organ have a different sensitivity to x-rays. If the patients are in a more vulnerable state such as pregnant women, the doctors take all necessary caution to prevent their exposure.