Dynamic Motion X-Ray (DMX)

DMX, or Dynamic Motion X-ray, is an advanced diagnostic imaging technology that captures high-quality, real-time X-ray images during motion. Unlike traditional static X-rays, DMX allows the physician or chiropractor to observe the body’s motion, providing a detailed look at how the joints, ligaments, and bones function under stress or during normal activities. This dynamic aspect makes DMX a powerful tool in assessing injuries, particularly those related to whiplash, trauma, and spinal instability. DMX provides objective proof of ligamentous injuries, especially those caused by Cervical Acceleration/Deceleration (CAD) trauma, which have historically been difficult to diagnose.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

• MRI is excellent for identifying disc herniations and other soft tissue injuries, but it is a static test. It cannot capture movement and, therefore, is limited in detecting functional instability or ligament damage that occurs during motion. DMX, on the other hand, records dynamic motion, allowing for a more comprehensive view of spinal instability, ligament damage, and overall joint function under stress.

CT (Computed Tomography):

• CT scans provide detailed images of bone structure and soft tissues. However, like MRI, they lack the ability to visualize motion. DMX is far superior in diagnosing injuries like ligament laxity that occur during movement.

X-ray with Flexion/Extension:

• While traditional X-rays with flexion or extension provide a limited view of spinal movement, DMX offers a more detailed, continuous capture of motion, revealing ligamentous instability and abnormalities that traditional methods may miss.

DMX is widely respected by medical professionals, chiropractors, and personal injury attorneys. Studies have shown that DMX is particularly effective at revealing ligamentous laxity (instability), a condition that can result in accelerated degeneration of the spine and discs. Key studies supporting DMX include:

• “Dynamic Motion X-ray: Advancing the Assessment of Spinal Instability” published in the Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine
  This study demonstrates that DMX is highly effective in detecting ligamentous injuries that static imaging cannot identify.

• “Dynamic Imaging in Spinal Diagnostics: A Comparative Review” published in Spine Journal

This review highlights the superiority of DMX in providing a more complete diagnosis of spinal instability, offering a clear edge over traditional imaging methods.

DMX has also been accepted as reliable evidence in court, with numerous successful personal injury cases, including a jury verdict of $743,188.95, where DMX evidence was crucial in demonstrating the severity of the injuries.

Yes, DMX is considered a safe diagnostic tool. It involves the use of low-level radiation, similar to traditional X-rays, but with much less exposure. Unlike MRI, which uses magnets and requires patients to remain still in a confined space, DMX allows for motion imaging in a more patient-friendly, standing position. It’s also safer than CT scans, which use higher doses of radiation.

DMX provides highly accurate results by capturing real-time motion of the spine, making it possible to observe ligamentous instability that static X-rays cannot detect. The test allows clinicians to assess the severity of spinal injuries, particularly those resulting from trauma such as whiplash. DMX has proven to be a reliable diagnostic tool for detecting both ligamentous damage and accelerated degeneration of the spine, a process that may develop rapidly after an injury.