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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is It Not Possible To Determine Severity Of Arthritis Using X-ray?

My doctor told me I have arthritis in L5 and L4 and is sending me for PT. When I asked my doctor how bad the arthritis looked on the x-ray, she said that I would have to have an MRI to get more detail and we cannot do that until I have 4 weeks of PT. Pain medications are not working and the pain extends from my lower back through my left buttock to my left hip and then down my leg. I am curious as to why more information wasn't available regarding the severity or type of arthritis from an x-ray.
Thu, 31 Jul 2014
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
welcome to Health care magic.
1.Every thing has its own limitations.
2.X-ray is good to see the bones, can not say any thing about disc, nerve,chord.
3.MRI is good in analysing the things x-ray can't.
4.Mean wile you ask your doctor for some exercise and symptomatic treatment to feel better.
5.once you are able to get the MRI done, after evaluation of the pathology - the definitive treatment can be started.
Hope it helps you. Wish you a good health.
Anything to ask ? do not hesitate. Thank you.
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Why Is It Not Possible To Determine Severity Of Arthritis Using X-ray?

welcome to Health care magic. 1.Every thing has its own limitations. 2.X-ray is good to see the bones, can not say any thing about disc, nerve,chord. 3.MRI is good in analysing the things x-ray can t. 4.Mean wile you ask your doctor for some exercise and symptomatic treatment to feel better. 5.once you are able to get the MRI done, after evaluation of the pathology - the definitive treatment can be started. Hope it helps you. Wish you a good health. Anything to ask ? do not hesitate. Thank you.