Private Imaging – MRI, X-ray, Ultrasound, DEXA
We’re excited to share that we provide our patients with the option to receive referrals for private diagnostic imaging,
encompassing X-rays, MRI, Ultrasound, and DEXA scans.
Patients frequently enquire about the necessity of a scan or X-ray. Fortunately, we’ve partnered with Oryon Imaging,
a diagnostic imaging centre situated in the heart of Central London, to facilitate any required referrals.
Oryon Imaging provides diagnostic imaging and prides itself on offering the most accessible and affordable private X-rays and scans for
self-pay and insured patients, with no compromise on quality. Oryon believes that the path to a diagnosis should be efficient, informative, and affordable for patients and healthcare practitioners alike.
What if I need and X-ray or a Scan?
During our initial consultation we will take a detailed history of your injury or complaint and carry out a thorough physical examination using a combination of movement analysis, joint range of motion assessment, resisted testing and specialised orthopaedic ‘special tests’. Based on our clinical findings, we can then decide how best to help you and whether further investigations or an onwards referral is needed.
What’s the difference between scans and X-rays?
MRI
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The MRI scanner is a tube-shaped magnet that is open at both ends. MRIs are safe and completely painless; they use a magnetic field and radio waves to build up a detailed picture of the inside of your body, including soft tissues, organs, cartilage, and bone. Many clinicians prefer MRI scans to other scan types because they provide a wealth of information without the involvement of radiation and can be used to investigate almost any part of the body.
X-ray
X-ray is a type of scan that uses X-ray radiation to produce images of the inside of the body, particularly bone. It is useful in many situations, including bone fractures, breaks, and joint arthritis. The procedure involves exposing part of your body to a small dose of ionising radiation which is quick and painless. We will generally send you for an X-ray if we wish to rule out the possibility of a bone stress injury or fracture.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scanner uses high frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of the body and can be used to look at all soft tissue structures and blood vessels. It is one of the safest types of scans you can have. During the scan, a small sensor, (transducer), is moved over the skin. This sensor projects and detects its own sound waves, which bounce off different parts of the body. A computer then organises the reflected waves into a dynamic picture, which the radiologist performing the scan uses to help make a diagnosis. We find this type of scan very helpful to assess if inflamed tendons or torn muscle require more than just conservative care.
DEXA Scan
DEXA stands for dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. It uses very low levels of X-rays to measure the density and therefore the strength of bones. Sometimes it goes by other names, such as DXA or bone densitometry. Certain bone conditions and medications may contribute to the loss of bone density, which can be detected by DEXA, a fast and accurate test that is more sensitive than ordinary X-rays when it comes to measuring the density of bones. It can also be used to assess bone injuries and fractures, and the effectiveness of treatment for low bone mineral density. DEXA scans can measure the mineral content in your bones, which can’t be measured as accurately in an ordinary X-ray. DEXA scans help us to find out whether you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing it.
What Happens Next?
Should you require a scan or X-ray, you can choose to consult with your GP initially, contact your private medical insurance, or allow us to refer you to our private imaging partner, Oryon Imaging. If you choose our referral pathway, we can typically arrange for a prompt X-ray or scan within a matter of days. Following the procedure, we receive a copy of your images, results, and a comprehensive radiologist report. We’ll discuss these findings with you and collaboratively determine the most suitable course of action for your future care.
Our Therapy Partners
In safe hands from day one…
“I highly recommend Luke. I personally have a complicated history of injuries and don’t always feel confident in putting my trust in a therapist, but I can honestly say my massage was fantastic, totally tailored to my needs. I will definitely be going back very soon for another session.”
Nicki Crockett • Enfield
Our Therapy Partners