A DMX report is most valuable when it changes decisions what movements to limit temporarily, which segments to stabilize, and how to progress rehab. DMX evaluates motion behavior, commonly described with translation (sliding) and angulation (tilting). This guide explains these terms in plain language and provides the key questions to ask so your report becomes a roadmap rather than just a document.
- DMX evaluates function in motion; MRI/CT focus on structure at rest.
- Translation and angulation describe how segments move through guided arcs.
- The best report review connects findings to your triggers and a stabilization-first progression plan.
Last updated: April 14, 2026
Reviewed by: DMX Miami clinical team
If you’ve had a DMX study or you’re considering one you may wonder what the report actually means. Many patients receive a report filled with levels (C2–C3, C4–C5, L4–L5), measurements, and technical terms, then ask: “Okay… what do I do now?”
DMX in one sentence
DMX is fluoroscopic video X-ray that records spinal motion during guided movement so providers can evaluate stability behavior through the arcs that trigger symptoms.
Why DMX is different from MRI
MRI answers structure-at-rest questions. DMX answers motion questions especially useful when symptoms are arc-dependent.
Translation and angulation in plain language
Numbers alone don’t equal diagnosis matching the pattern to triggers does.
Connect the report to your triggers
DMX becomes meaningful when it aligns with driving triggers, traffic-light triggers, screen posture, bed rolling, sit-to-stand transitions, and left vs right differences.
The 10 questions that turn a report into a plan
- Which segments were most abnormal?
- Which arc showed the issue (flexion/extension/rotation/combined)?
- Do findings match my triggers?
- Which motions should I limit temporarily?
- What is the #1 stabilization priority?
- Which exercises should I avoid right now?
- How should manual therapy be modified?
- What milestones show progress?
- How will we re-assess?
- Who is coordinating the plan?
Common mistakes
Treating the report like a label, continuing aggravating exercises, skipping plan review, and ignoring lifestyle triggers.
FAQs
What does translation mean on a DMX report?
Sliding movement between vertebrae during motion.
What does angulation mean?
Tilting movement between vertebrae during motion.
Does a DMX report replace MRI?
No. It complements MRI/CT/X-ray by evaluating motion behavior.
What is the most important part of a DMX report?
How findings match your triggers and change your treatment plan.
References:
- Cleveland Clinic: General education on neck and back pain evaluation.
- PubMed-indexed literature on spinal biomechanics, segmental instability concepts, and dynamic fluoroscopic imaging.
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Dr. Rodolfo Alfonso, D.C.
Dr. Mark N. Berry, D.C.
Sunset Chiropractic and Wellness
8585 Sunset Dr. STE 102
Miami, Florida 33143