The “Choose PT First” Movement
Many patients request getting an X-Ray or MRI once they feel an onset of pain in the body. Those same people may become frightened of the discovery of degenerative joint changes but according to overwhelming evidence, we now know that these changes are normal parts of the aging process. In fact, these same degenerative joint changes are just as evident in people who have no pain (asymptomatic), according to recent studies. Check out these interesting facts when it comes to image findings in asymptomatic individuals:
- Disc Bulging: 87% between the Ages of 20-70
- Partial Rotator Cuff Tear: 22% between the Ages of 40-70
- Bursal Thickening: 78% between the Ages of 40-70
- Lumbar Disc Degeneration:
- 37% in 20 Year Olds
- 9 6% in 80 Year Olds
- Arthritis: 19-43% in 40+
- Knee Cartilage Defects: 43% in 40+
- Meniscal Tear: 19% in 40+
- Hip Labral Injury: 68% in All Ages
The BIG picture here is that positive image findings don’t necessarily have to equal pain. Negative findings are found in ASYMPTOMATIC individuals. It is important that we as clinicians and physicians not rely solely on diagnostic imaging as the be-all-end-all when prescribing interventions. ProMet Physical Therapy are proud advocates for the “Choose PT First” Movement. Choose PT first, save time and money and start seeing results today!
