Diagnostic X-ray

X-rays are needed in most cases to perform an initial evaluation and also to measure your progress during the healing process. We provide on site x-ray services at all our office locations. We suggest you bring elastic-waist shorts with you to make taking your x-rays easier.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

This is a type of high tech scanner that uses magnetic fields to create “slices” of a picture of a part of your body. This diagnostic test will be used to evaluate and verify your specific injury. These scans may be done with or without dye. Arthrograms are MRI studies with dye. If dye is required, you will receive an injection by a Radiologist and then taken to our MRI Suite for your scan. We employ our own technicians to ensure that you have the best possible scan, built to each physician’s specifications. There are some patients who may not qualify for scanning if they have certain conditions or metal in their bodies.

NOTE: If you have an arthrogram-MRI at OPA MRI, you may receive bills from multiple parties, including the Seattle Surgery Center and the radiologist who performs the injection procedure, in addition to the MRI scan bill.

MRI Medical Questionnaire (PDF)
MRI Location

Durable Medical Equipment
Orthopedics is a specialty that can require use of durable medical equipment. Items like crutches, braces, walking boots, and CPM machines can be used alone or in combination with surgery. You will not have to drive to an outside vendor. OPA Staff will properly fit your needed items.

Orthotics
Many patients will find they need to wear better shoes or shoes with added support. This alone may help their condition or may be in conjunction with surgery. You may purchase orthotics from an outside company or we can custom fit orthotics in our offices. You will walk across a computerized pad that will take readings of your foot and measure your gait and strike points. With that information a custom pair of orthotics can be made to fit your foot precisely.

EMG (Electromyography)
EMG is most often used when people have symptoms of weakness and the examination shows impaired muscle strength. EMG can help us determine if there is damage to the muscle or to the nerves leading to the muscle and to evaluate and diagnose muscle and nerve disorders. Eva Young, M.D., performs EMG studies in our OPA Main Office, 601 Broadway, Seattle, Washington 98122.