MRI REFERRAL & REVIEW
At The London Road Clinic, as part of our diagnostic and treatment process, our osteopaths may occasionally need to refer their patients for MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans. An MRI scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures, including bones, muscles, organs, and tissues.
In this web page, we will explore why an osteopath may refer a patient for an MRI scan, how the process works, and what patients can expect.
Why would an osteopath refer a patient for an MRI scan?
Our osteopaths may refer patients for an MRI scan if they suspect a more serious underlying condition or need further information to accurately diagnose a condition. This may include conditions such as disc herniation, spinal cord compression, or other structural abnormalities that cannot be detected through a physical examination alone.
An MRI scan can also provide valuable information about the extent of damage or injury to a specific area, therefore helping us to develop a more targeted treatment plan.
How does the MRI process work?
An MRI scan typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete and is a painless procedure. Patients will be asked to lie still on a table that moves into the MRI machine. The machine will generate a magnetic field, and radio waves will be directed at the body to create images.
The machine will make a loud knocking noise during the scan, but patients will be given earplugs or headphones to block out the noise. Some patients may also be given a contrast agent to help enhance the images, which will be injected into a vein in the arm.
What can patients expect after an MRI scan?
After the MRI scan, patients can usually return to their normal activities right away. The images will be reviewed by a radiologist, who will then send a report to our osteopath and GP if agreed. Our osteopath will then review the results with the patient, discussing any findings and implications for their treatment plan.
In summary, osteopaths may refer their patients for MRI scans to help diagnose and develop treatment plans for conditions that cannot be accurately assessed through a physical examination alone. The process is safe, painless, and typically takes less than an hour to complete. After the scan, the osteopath will review the results with the patient and discuss any necessary next steps.
If you would like to book in for treatment or to discuss if we think an MRI would be of value to you, please use the booking link below.