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Spinal KineticsMar 5, 2025 3:00:58 PM2 min read

Why CRMA™ Provides Better Data Than a Flexion Extension MRI

Introduction To Flexion Extension MRI Scans

When diagnosing spinal injuries, especially ligament instability, many practitioners rely on flexion extension MRI scans. While MRI is a valuable tool for visualizing soft tissue injuries, it often falls short in detecting subtle yet significant spinal instability. This is where Computerized Radiographic Mensuration Analysis (CRMA™) provides a superior solution. By analyzing cervical spine X-ray flexion extension images, CRMA™ offers precise, objective data that MRI alone cannot.

Limitations of Flexion Extension MRI

A flexion extension MRI captures images of the cervical spine in different positions, but it does not measure the actual movement between vertebrae. This limitation makes it less effective for detecting excessive motion caused by ligament damage. Key shortcomings include:

  • Lack of Motion Analysis – MRI provides static images rather than measuring vertebral movement during flexion and extension.

  • Inability to Quantify Ligament Instability – MRI cannot objectively assess the degree of instability in spinal segments.

  • Missed Diagnoses – Many cases of ligament laxity remain undetected, leading to incomplete or ineffective treatment plans.

How CRMA™ Outperforms MRI in Flexion and Extension Testing

Unlike MRI, CRMA™ utilizes cervical X-ray flexion extension studies to provide precise measurements of vertebral movement. This allows chiropractors and medical professionals to detect even the smallest abnormalities that indicate ligament instability.

Key Advantages of CRMA™:

1. Objective Measurement of Spinal Instability

CRMA™ quantifies excessive motion between vertebrae, something a flexion extension MRI cannot do.

2. More Accurate Diagnosis

By using cervical spine X-ray flexion extension images, CRMA™ identifies ligament injuries that static imaging methods often miss.

The precise data from CRMA™ serves as objective evidence for medico-legal cases and insurance claims.

4. Non-Invasive and Cost-Effective

CRMA™ integrates easily into chiropractic diagnostics without requiring expensive MRI procedures.

Why Chiropractors Should Use CRMA™

For chiropractors and healthcare professionals treating spinal injuries, especially those related to flexion extension MRI, integrating CRMA™ into practice ensures more accurate diagnostics and better patient outcomes. Cervical X-ray flexion extension imaging combined with CRMA™ offers:

  • Early detection of ligament instability

  • More effective treatment plans

  • Greater credibility in patient injury documentation

Conclusion

While a flexion extension MRI provides useful imaging, it does not measure ligament instability effectively. CRMA™, using cervical X-ray flexion extension analysis, delivers objective, quantifiable data that enhances diagnostic accuracy and patient care. For a cervical spine X-ray flexion extension study that provides truly actionable insights, CRMA™ is the superior choice.

For more information on CRMA™ and its benefits click below!

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