Longhorn Imaging Vertebral Motion Analysis (VMA)

Longhorn Imaging Center provides top-notch patient medical diagnostic services using state-of-the-art equipment. We are committed to on-time appointments and your comfort while you’re here.

Most diagnostic centers use snapshot imaging for spinal X-rays. Longhorn Imaging Center uses a new technology called Vertebral Motion Analysis (VMA). This method provides a much more highly sensitive and accurate test for your spinal instability, back, and neck pain.

VMA is a new technology that is available only at a handful of hospitals and centers across the nation, including ours. We are very excited that our patients have access to it.

Contact us now at 512-444-8900 and let us help you get more accurate answers to what is causing your pain.

What is a VMA?

Most neck, back, and spinal problems are diagnosed using a flexing/extension bending X-ray that consists of standalone still images. The diagnostic value of this type of X-ray depends on the patient’s ability to bend and extend comfortably.

Often, because of pain restrictions, a patient “guards” themselves from pain and does not bend or extend adequately enough for proper images.

Although the standard flexing/extension X-rays are still valuable in the diagnosis of back, spine, and neck pain, that value is limited by the patient’s mobility.

That’s why VMA, a new technological alternative, is so much more beneficial in getting an accurate diagnosis of the exact problem, which can lead to a more focused treatment plan for you.

The VMA machine bends for you. It gently moves to simulate a full range of motion for your neck, back, and spine, without you having to do anything. The result is an assessment that gives your physician the ability to fully evaluate your spinal instability and alignment.

The images from a VMA are not standalone still images. They are, instead, compiled computerized images shown as a real-time movie of the spine in full range of motion.

A VMA is more accurate than standard X-rays, and its fluoroscopic dynamic images emit less radiation than X-rays.

Why is a VMA Done?

• To analyze alignment and motion in musculoskeletal images of the spine
• To detect spinal abnormalities
• To provide valuable information about your spinal bones, nerves, and discs as you move to guide treatment for neck and back pain

How Do You Prepare for VMA?

• Arrive 15 minutes before the appointment.
• Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing with no metal or zippers.

What Happens During VMA?

• Testing takes about 20 minutes.
• You will take a position within the VMA machine as directed by the technician. The device will gently guide your body through a series of passive motions of bending up, bending down, and twisting.
• While the machine is guiding your movements, the technician will capture videos.
• The process should not cause pain or discomfort; however, if you do experience any pain, you may press a “stop” button at any time to stop or pause the test.

What Happens After VMA?

• You may leave the facility and return to normal activities after the test.
• VMA results get uploaded to HIPPA-compliant cloud servers, where processing for measurements and results takes place.
• Images are available to your physician, securely online, within hours.
• Your physician will discuss the results of the test with you at a follow-up appointment with them.

Contact Us

VMA is cutting-edge technology, and our attentive and compassionate staff is here to assist you through the testing process. Because VMA is more precise in diagnosing neck, spine, and back pain, the corresponding treatment for your spinal discomfort and pain is closer at hand.

Longhorn Imaging Center’s bilingual centers are conveniently located in North, Central, and South Austin, as well as Cedar Park and Killeen, Texas.

If you have further questions, need more information, or are ready to schedule an appointment, please call us today at 512-444-8900.