Diagnostic Technologies

At Stow Family Chiropractic, we take pride in our leading-edge technology and diagnostic tools such as digital x-ray, surface EMG, and digital 3D foot scans that we use for every new patient on their first visit.

Surface Electromyography (sEMG)

Surface Electromyography is a technique in which electrodes are placed on the skin overlying a muscle to measure the tone of muscles along the entire spine. This diagnostic technology identifies overactive and exhausted neuromuscular areas. The graphs are used to depict muscle symmetry and the amount of muscle tension on each side of the spine.

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Dr. Todd taking digital x-rays to evaluate the spine of a patient

Digital X-Rays

Digital radiology is a type of X-ray technology where digital X-ray sensors are used instead of traditional photographic film. This allows the image to be directly transmitted to a computer screen. The doctor can then zoom in and enhance the image to get a more detailed look at what is going on in your body from a musculoskeletal point of view. Other advantages of digital X-rays are that they are good for the environment (since no chemicals are used to develop images), and they are also much better for your body, exposing you to 80-90% less radiation than conventional X-rays!

Digital x-ray is an essential tool for early detection of musculoskeletal issues. Because our bodies are biomechanical structures, an X-ray, especially one taken with the patient standing, gives a great deal of information regarding that person’s wear and tear patterns and biomechanical imbalances. A digital x-ray can give a clear status report on where an individual has elevated stress in his skeletal system. There are many predictable factors that we can see when we look at an x-ray from a biomechanical point of view.

Digital radiology also helps us rule out more serious conditions. There are many silent diseases and diseases that can mimic basic strain/sprain injuries. The digital X-ray is the least expensive and simplest screening technique for finding such diseases. Finally, the digital x-ray gives a powerful visual picture of the situation to the patient. Successful cases originate with a well-educated patient who knows and understands what’s happening inside their body. 

3D Digital Foot Scan

Structural imbalances originate in the feet. Abnormal mechanical loading can cause severe stress and strain throughout the entire structure of the body.

If we do not address these imbalances, regardless of what other treatments or conditioning we use, whenever we are standing, our posture will be imbalanced and the body will be stressed.

A 3D digital foot scan shows the very unique personality of each foot and the status of the three arches that give each foot the necessary strength to support the body.

Similar to the digital x-ray, a 3D digital foot scan is another important diagnostic tool for determining imbalances in the body that allows us to develop a custom solution that will bring your body back into balance and optimal health.

Dr. Todd evalutating posture using our digital 3-D foot scan