05/15/2026
The ICA's Public Statement on Diagnostic Imaging
"The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is committed to helping patients make informed decisions about their health care. When your chiropractor recommends diagnostic imaging, that recommendation is grounded in training, clinical evidence, and a genuine commitment to your wellbeing.
It has been established that spinal conditions that affect public health can lead to pain, disability, decrease in quality of life as well as have a direct impact ones health and wellness. Diagnostic imaging is the standard of care in the profession as a safe and effective method for Doctors of Chiropractic to properly measure initial and follow-up spinal misalignment (subluxation). It is also important for identification of pathology, as well as managing and monitoring spinal conditions, all to provide the best outcomes for your health.
The Doctor of Chiropractic, after performing a history and examination, will determine if diagnostic imaging is necessary and if so which type of imaging is appropriate for your individual condition. X-rays are also used to rule out or screen for other pathologies that may need referral to another specialist or to determine if more advanced imaging is necessary.
Your Doctor of Chiropractic may use additional advanced imaging such as: Digital Motion X-ray, Cone beam CT (CBCT), MRI or CT depending on initial findings of routine X-ray imaging and exam findings. Follow up imaging may be necessary to determine if a condition is still present, has worsened, or has improved and/or resolved after treatment. Your Doctor of Chiropractic should explain if there is a need for routine diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and the rational if more advanced imaging is necessary for your specific condition. "
https://www.chiropractic.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Diagnostic-Imaging-Statement-May-2026-approved.pdf?fbclid=IwdGRleAR1txtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe6cz_ZdmJzTnSOKOV6PabI9WaxFWr6ByUoPtB19nZDSuNnfsMPOvUCc08dOU_aem_8MU2Xto2EOH-BM35dWmdbQ
