What to Expect from a Digital X-Ray: Fast, Accurate Imaging
Understanding Your X-Ray: What It Shows and How It Works
If your doctor has recommended an X-ray, you might be wondering what it’s for and what the experience will be like. At Wisteria Imaging, we provide digital X-rays that are fast, safe, and performed by experienced technologists in a calm, outpatient setting. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning for follow-up care, here’s what you need to know before your scan.
Our goal is to make the imaging process as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you feel confident in the care you're receiving and the results you’ll get.
What Is an X-Ray Used For?
X-rays are one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in medicine. They help providers assess bones, joints, and certain soft tissues. Your doctor may order an X-ray to:
Detect bone fractures or dislocations
Evaluate joint or spine conditions
Identify signs of infection or arthritis
Examine the lungs for conditions like pneumonia or a chronic cough
Monitor healing after surgery or injury
In many cases, an X-ray is the first imaging test used when a patient presents with a new injury or unexplained pain. It’s quick, non-invasive, and often provides enough information for your doctor to make a diagnosis or determine the next step in care.
At Wisteria Imaging, we perform general diagnostic X-rays for everything from chest exams to extremity imaging, all using low-dose, digital technology designed for accuracy and efficiency.
Are Digital X-Rays Safe?
Yes. Modern digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, and the exposure is extremely low, comparable to what you’d receive from natural background radiation over a few days. Our equipment is calibrated for precision and safety, and we follow all national guidelines to limit exposure while capturing the highest quality images.
Patients often feel nervous about radiation, but X-rays are considered very safe, especially when medically necessary and performed using current low-dose techniques. If you have questions or concerns, our technologists are always available to explain the process and help you feel at ease.
How to Prepare for an X-Ray
Most X-rays don’t require any special preparation. In general:
You’ll be asked to remove any jewelry or metal objects near the area being scanned.
You may be given a gown to wear, depending on what part of the body is being examined.
You can eat, drink, and take your medications as usual unless told otherwise.
Our technologists will guide you through the entire process and make sure you’re comfortable before the scan begins. If you’re coming in for a follow-up or repeat X-ray, we’ll compare your current results to previous scans to track healing or changes over time.
What Happens During the Scan?
The actual scan usually takes just a few minutes. You’ll be positioned carefully by a technologist to ensure the best possible image. In most cases, the machine will take one or more images of the area being evaluated. You may be asked to hold still or briefly hold your breath during exposure to reduce motion blur.
There’s no pain involved: just a quick snapshot using a very small, targeted dose of radiation. Most exams are completed in under 15 minutes, and you'll be able to return to your normal routine right away.
What Happens After?
There’s no downtime after an X-ray. Once the scan is complete, you can go about your day as normal. A board-certified radiologist will interpret the images and send a report to your referring provider, typically within 24–48 hours. Your doctor will then review the findings with you and discuss any recommended next steps.
If you need to schedule an X-ray or want more information about our process, you can visit our X-Ray page or stop by our Wyncote location. We also offer affordable pricing for self-pay patients, with no surprise bills or hidden fees.
Walk In or Call Today
At Wisteria Imaging, we make it easy to get the answers you need with digital X-ray services that are quick, accurate, and always patient-centered. If your provider has ordered imaging, or if you’re dealing with a recent injury or lingering symptoms, walk in today or contact us to schedule your scan.
We’re here to support your health, one clear image at a time.