An X-ray is a test that uses radiation to take pictures of the inside of your body. The X-ray machine will shoot a beam of radiation through your body and onto film. Different parts of your body absorb different amounts of radiation. This is what makes the different parts of your body look different on the film. A spinal X-ray is a type of X-ray that is used to take pictures of the lower spine. The lower spine is made up of the bones in your lower back. The X-ray will show 4 different views of the lower spine.