RISK MANAGEMENT FOR CHIROPRACTORS AND OSTEOPATHS: Imaging Guidelines for Conditions Commonly Seen in Practice

This article is the second in a series of articles dealing with risk management in the practise of chiropractic and osteopathy, prepared by the COCA Risk Management Subcommittee. Background: Radiographic examination carries risks that must be weighed against the possible benefits when determining patient care. Objective: The objective of this article is to propose guidelines for the use of imaging in chiropractic and osteopathic practice. Discussion: Plain film radiography, CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other forms of imaging are available for use in chiropractic and osteopathic practice in Australia. The astute practitioner utilises these imaging procedures for clinical decision making in order to make an accurate diagnosis that will determine a patient’s management. This article attempts to guide the practitioner in the proper use of these imaging procedures for different regions of the body.