Joint pain, lung problems or persistent swelling? These issues call for an X-ray at AFC urgent care. We’re open daily & accept most insurance. 

An active lifestyle can sometimes come with minor bumps and bruises. Maybe you hosted your child’s birthday party at Playland and now their ankle is swollen, or maybe you had a little trouble breathing when you were visiting the Mooresville Museum. So how do you know when that pain or respiratory issue is actually something more serious?  

At AFC Urgent Care, we make it easy to find out. Our clinic always has an X-ray technician on staff and provides same-day digital X-rays right here on site – no need for an ER visit or referral. Here’s what you should know about X-rays and how to tell when it’s time to get one. 

Save your spot at AFC Mooresville today! 

What Is an X-ray? 

An X-ray is a painless medical imaging test that allows health care providers to see inside your body. It uses a small, safe amount of radiation to create pictures of your bones, joints and sometimes soft tissues. These images help identify fractures, dislocations, infections and other internal issues that can’t be seen from the outside. 

The History of X-rays 

X-rays were first discovered in 1895 by German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen while experimenting with electrical currents. When he directed the mysterious new rays at his wife’s hand, he captured the very first X-ray image. Since then, X-ray technology has advanced tremendously, becoming a cornerstone of modern medicine. 

How Do X-rays Work? 

X-rays are a type of high-energy electromagnetic wave. When you get an X-ray, the machine sends these rays through your body to create an image on a digital detector. 

• Dense materials like bones absorb more radiation and appear bright white on the image. 
• Softer tissues, like muscles and organs, appear in shades of gray. 

This contrast helps medical professionals spot anything out of the ordinary, such as a fracture, fluid buildup or lung infection. 

X-ray Categories 

There are three main types of X-rays. 

1. Radiography: This produces still images and is the most common form of X-ray. 
2. Computed Tomography (CT) Scans: This type is a detailed 3D image. It’s taken from multiple X-ray slices from various angles, but it significantly increases radiation exposure. 
3. Fluoroscopy: This technique creates real-time moving images, often used to examine the heart, digestive system and joints. 

Are X-rays Safe? 

Yes, X-rays are generally very safe when performed correctly. In fact, most X-rays expose you to only a small amount of radiation, comparable to what you’d naturally experience in your environment over a few days. 

For example: 

• A chest X-ray = about 10 days of background radiation 
• A dental X-ray = about 1 day of background radiation 

At AFC Mooresville, we follow the ALARA principle – “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This means we always use the smallest possible amount of radiation to get clear, accurate images. 

If you’ve recently had X-rays or could be pregnant, it’s important to let one of our providers know so we can ensure your care remains safe and appropriate. 

How to Tell You Need an X-ray 

You don’t need an X-ray for every injury, but there are some clear signs that it’s worth getting checked. 

You may need an X-ray if you experience: 

• Visible deformity: Your bone or joint looks out of place or is positioned at an odd angle. 
• Inability to bear weight: You can’t put pressure on your foot, ankle or leg without significant pain. 
• Severe or persistent swelling and bruising: Especially if it doesn’t improve after a few days of rest and ice. 
• Pain that doesn’t go away: If your pain hasn’t improved after several days or is getting worse, an X-ray can help identify the cause. 
• Joint pain or stiffness: X-rays can help detect arthritis, dislocations or other chronic conditions. 
• Lung or chest issues: When evaluating conditions like pneumonia or other respiratory concerns. 
• Digestive problems: Certain X-rays can identify blockages or swallowed objects. 

Even if your injury doesn’t seem serious at first, getting an X-ray can give you peace of mind and prevent complications from undiagnosed fractures or sprains. 

The Benefits of Digital X-rays 

At AFC Mooresville, we use advanced digital X-ray technology. This is a modern alternative to traditional film-based X-rays. It offers several key benefits: 

• Lower radiation exposure (digital x-ray machines produce 80% less radiation). 
• Clearer, sharper imaging. 
• Instant results (no waiting for film to develop). 
• Easier record sharing between providers. 
• Environmentally friendly (no need to use harmful chemicals, like lead, to produce film X-rays). 

With digital X-rays at AFC, you’ll get results quickly, so your provider can review them with you and create a treatment plan right away. 

Get Diagnosed at AFC Mooresville 

Injuries and accidents happen, but you shouldn’t have to wait days for answers. At AFC Mooresville, we make getting an X-ray simple, fast and affordable. Our walk-in clinic is open seven days a week, including evenings, with no appointment necessary. Our team of expert professionals can give you X-rays and set you up with an individual treatment plan – all under one roof! Stop by today.