Orthopedic tests and imaging

Orthopedic specialists at Ascension Via Christi use advanced imaging and diagnostic testing to diagnose bone, joint, muscle and spine conditions.

Advanced imaging and testing for personalized orthopedic care

Imaging and diagnostic tests help your care team better understand orthopedic conditions, including joint damage, fractures, nerve compression, soft tissue injuries and changes affecting movement or mobility.

Whether you’re experiencing new pain, recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or seeking preventive care, our orthopedic specialists work closely with your primary care doctor to support early diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan centered on your needs and well-being.

A bone density scan measures the strength and thickness of your bones. This test  (which used to be known as a DEXA scan or DEXA test) helps diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis and can assess your risk for fractures or bone loss.

A CT scan creates detailed images of the brain and spine in a short amount of time. CT scans are often used in urgent situations to help evaluate injuries or other immediate concerns.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. This test helps evaluate soft tissue injuries, inflammation, fluid buildup and movement-related conditions.

Electromyography tests measure signals between your nerves and muscles to help identify the cause of symptoms like numbness, tingling or weakness. They provide helpful insight into nerve-related conditions.

Gait and movement evaluation studies how you walk and move to identify balance issues, joint problems, muscle weakness or movement abnormalities. These analyses can help guide rehabilitation and treatment planning.

MRI uses advanced imaging technology to create detailed pictures of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and the spine. Orthopedic specialists commonly use MRI to diagnose soft tissue injuries, joint conditions and spinal disorders.

Functional testing evaluates strength, flexibility, balance and movement patterns after injury or surgery. These assessments help guide rehabilitation and support a safe return to activity or sports participation.

X-rays are one of the most commonly used orthopedic imaging tests. They provide detailed images of bones and joints to help diagnose fractures, arthritis, joint alignment issues and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Stories you'll love

Rod Schmidt is back to tackling projects around his home and yard—doing the things he enjoys without the constant pain and stiffness that osteoarthritis once caused.

Radiation therapy relieved hand osteoarthritis

September 15, 2026

At Ascension Via Christi Cancer Center in Wichita, Kansas, low-dose radiation therapy provided lasting pain relief for hand osteoarthritis three years after treatment.

Via Christi’s heart surgery team stands with a banner promoting the Ultreon 3.0 Software.

New imaging options for CAD care

August 14, 2026

Ascension Via Christi is advancing heart care with Ultreon™ 3.0 imaging technology, helping cardiologists deliver more precise, personalized treatment for coronary artery disease close to home.

Ascension Via Christi rendering of Mammography bus

Ascension Via Christi to offer mobile mammography

May 5, 2023

Ascension Via Christi has purchased a customized mobile mammography vehicle, which once received and operational this summer, will make 3D breast imaging screening exams available at worksites and other Wichita, Manhattan and Pittsburg, Kansas, area community sites.

READ MORE STORIES