Join Erin and Michelle as they cover another topic contributing to the pain epidemic in our world - medical imaging. We’ve all likely heard a story of someone having an x-ray or MRI and being told, “you have the spine of a 80 year old” or “this is the worst thing I’ve seen, I can’t believe you’re not in more pain”. This type of language is harmful and can actually impact an individual’s progress and prognosis! Imaging is an important tool in healthcare to prevent and diagnose serious disease or pathology, but it can be overused and used in the wrong situations which can sometimes lead to poorer outcomes for someone. Michelle and Erin want you to be aware of when medical imaging is helpful and when it might not be necessary, so that you can continue to be the best advocate for yourself.
References:
- Brinjikji, W., Luetmer, P. H., Comstock, B., Bresnahan, B. W., Chen, L. E., Deyo, R. A., … Jarvik, J. G. (2015). Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations. American Journal of Neuroradiology, 36(4), 811–816. https://doi.org/10.3174/ajnr.A4173
- Deyle, G. The role of MRI in musculoskeletal practice: a clinical perspective. Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy 2011;19(3): 152-161.
- Babineau, E. (2018, August 2). Imaging – Does it actually paint a clearer picture? Motion. https://motion.care/imaging-does-it-actually-paint-a-clearer-picture/.
- Fernandez, E. (2021, April 28). Medical Imaging Rates Continue to Rise Despite Push to Reduce Their Use. Medical Imaging Rates Continue to Rise Despite Push to Reduce Their Use | UC San Francisco. https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2019/09/415286/medical-imaging-rates-continue-rise-despite-push-reduce-their-use.
- Flynn, T. W., Smith, B., & Chou, R. Appropriate Use of Diagnostic Imaging in Low Back Pain: A Reminder That Unnecessary Imaging May Do as Much Harm as Good. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy 2011;41(11): 838-846.
- Jensen M.C., Brant-Zawadzki M.N., Obuchowski N., Modic M.T., Malkasian D., Ross J.S. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine in people without back pain. New England Journal of Medicine 1994;331:69–73.
- Radiation Dose in X-Ray and CT Exams. (2019, July 1). Radiologyinfo.org. https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/safety-xray#:~:text=Like%20other%20sources%20of%20background,part%20of%20our%20daily%20living.
Disclaimer: This podcast contains general information for community education purposes only, and does not take into account your specific comorbidities that your current healthcare provider may be managing. Please contact your care provider with questions regarding anything particular to you.