X-rays are able to penetrate body tissues. They are used to create pictures, or images, of body structures on film. More correct names for the pictures on film are radiographs or x-ray images. However, the term x-ray is commonly used to refer to these images. A radiograph is a painless procedure.
Modern equipment produces high-quality images using the lowest possible amount of radiation.
Many physicians' offices have their own x-ray equipment. X-rays are used in the diagnosis of many diseases and disorders. They can show changes in the part of the body being examined. There are no special preparations for most x-ray exams. If you are having a special x-ray exam that requires preparation, your health care provider will give you special instructions.