National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

Which imaging technique is preferred for assessing soft tissue injuries?

1. X-ray

2. CT scan

3. Ultrasound

4. MRI

The correct answer is: MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is considered the preferred imaging technique for assessing soft tissue injuries due to its ability to provide detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. MRI employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate high-resolution images without the use of ionizing radiation, which is an advantage for patient safety. The contrast between different types of soft tissues is enhanced in MRI scans, making it particularly effective for diagnosing conditions such as tears, sprains, and other injuries that involve soft tissue structures. Additionally, MRI can reveal edema and other changes that may not be visible on other imaging modalities, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the injury. In contrast, X-rays primarily show bone structures and are limited in their ability to visualize soft tissues, making them less suitable for assessing soft tissue injuries. CT scans provide better detail than X-rays for bony anatomy and may show some soft tissue structures, but they are not as effective as MRI when it comes to a detailed examination of soft tissue injuries. Ultrasound can be useful for evaluating certain soft tissue injuries in real-time, particularly those close to the skin surface; however, it is technician-dependent and may not provide the same level of detail and comprehensive assessment as MRI