Are X-Rays Necessary to Diagnose Pain?
Most people don’t know that physical therapists can provide treatment without an imaging diagnostic, such as X-Rays, MRIs, or Ultrasounds (US). During your initial visit, they can accurately predict if you have an underlying condition that requires further testing. In almost all cases, an x-ray is not necessary to diagnose pain, and a patient can start physical therapy to get pain relief without spending extra medical costs on extra tests. Advanced diagnostic tests are only needed when pain is too severe to treat solely with physical therapy. A physical therapist can then provide a referral for any diagnostic imaging they need to properly provide care, which studies show has a 91% rate of accuracy.
What is an X-Ray?
An X-Ray is one of many diagnostic tests, which are used to determine what illness or condition a patient has. X-Rays use radiation waves to take images of bone tissue using radiation waves. They can show a range of abnormalities, including bone fractures, arthritis, scoliosis, tumors, infection, and even fluid in the lungs. Although it is painless, radiation waves can be detrimental to health if used in excess.
How much is an X-Ray?
In Texas, a single X-Ray test can cost anywhere from $75 to over $200, depending on whether your insurance covers it or not. Self-pay and high deductible plans often show how expensive an X-Ray exam can be for a patient. Although it can be used efficiently for diagnosis, it can also be an extra medical cost that can be avoided by visiting a physical therapist first.
When is an X-Ray not necessary and when is it beneficial?
Pain that seems to come from no apparent cause and/or gradually increases would NOT cause a call for additional diagnostic testing. This is the most common situation when a patient presents with onset pain. A physical therapist can not only evaluate pain, but they can also treat pain! If during physical therapy, your pain worsens or does not change, then you should speak to your physical therapist about an underlying condition preventing you from getting better, according to verywellhealth.
Is it safe to see a PT before going to the doctor or getting x-rays?
YES, it’s safe. As a matter of fact, research shows that seeing a physical therapist early on in your course of pain often leads to improved short-term and long- term outcomes. Furthermore, physical therapists are trained to identify red flags that require immediate medical attention by a doctor, or imaging such as x-rays.
How can I be sure?
Sometimes, pain can feel more severe than it is, which leads patients to seek more drastic treatment options before considering physical therapy. However, studies show that physical therapists are 75% likely to be accurate about your condition during the first evaluation. Orthopedic surgeons are likely to be 80% to put it into perspective. When it comes to diagnosing pain, physical therapists will know if your condition is complex or if you can start physical therapy right away.
How will my physical therapist be sure?
Physical therapists are trained to spot any “red flags” that point to a more complex musculoskeletal condition or something else. By analyzing your range of motion, gait, posture, functional mobility, and symptoms, physical therapists can determine what the best care plan is for each patient. They will work closely with a patient’s care team, including the referring physical and other specialists, to create a safe and effective physical therapy plan.
About Physiologic Physical Therapy
At Physiologic Physical Therapy, we offer evidence-based, specialized treatment for various physiologic conditions. If you are having recurrent pain, discomfort, or issues with specific body parts, talk to your doctor about seeing a physical therapist. We help guide our patients through their physical therapy journey. Learn more about the services we provide at Physiologic Physical Therapy clinic in Aledo, TX.
