Imaging Results
They Do Not Define You
How many times have you felt overwhelmed or disappointed when receiving imaging results? Well, you are not the only one. Many of my patients do, and I attribute portion of these feelings to the fact that some healthcare providers do not spend enough time discussing and explaining the results to their patients.
If there is one takeaway from reading this blog post is that, when it comes to understanding imaging results, it's crucial to remember that these results are just a snapshot in time and do not define who you are or how you will feel in the future. And this is where I must emphasize the importance of patient education in this context. By educating patients about their imaging findings, physical therapists (PTs) can help shift their perspective on pain and recovery, regardless of what the images show (Flynn et al., 2011).
Changing Perspectives Through Education
I would like to shed some light and try to open your mind and demonstrate that current negative imaging results are not permanent. Imaging results can change with proper actions and interventions. To do so, let me share a real patient case shared in a journal by Flynn et all (2011) to illustrate the point.
This is the case of a 60-year-old male and a 32-year-old male with low back pain (LBP). The former patient got such a degenerative and detrimental result in his imaging that anyone would think he was living a life full of pain, but, in reality, he was living an active and minimal pain lifestyle. The latter individual, instead, got better imaging results but, surprisingly, was living in excruciating pain and disability.
This instance helps provide perspective to patients regarding their imaging results. Further, these cases highlight that imaging results don't always correlate with the patient's experience of pain.
Tools and Strategies for Patient Education
I want to let you know that PTs have a myriad of tools and strategies for patient education, especially when it comes to imaging result. So, when you have questions, please ask! And ask many times. Continuous education and support are key. By following these suggestions, you can improve your pain and physical function with the right guidance, mental work, and empowerment.
We can help you as much as possible by using pictures, videos, anatomical models, or drawings that can enhance your educational experience. These tools will help you visualize your condition and understand the body's functions and mechanisms in simple terms. But, in the end, you also need an open mind to drive the results that are best for you in the recovery journey. Be open to our empathy as this is crucial in helping you understand that your beliefs about your condition might be limiting your recovery (University of Missouri, n.d.). And listen to our anecdotes from previous patients or research cases where individuals overcame seemingly hopeless imaging results and feel inspired and motivated to change your mindset and approach to recovery.
We, as healthcare providers, should be helping you feel understood and provide a safe environment where you feel assured of being heard (Resnicow & McMaster, 2012). Always be cognizant of that.
Conclusion
Imaging results are just one piece of the puzzle. They do not define you or your potential for recovery. With the right education, support, and mindset, you can improve your pain and physical function. Remember, your journey to recovery is unique, and with proper guidance and empowerment, you can achieve your goals!
Did you know that Tactica Physical Therapy & Wellness takes a comprehensive approach to your health? You can bring your imaging studies (i.e., X-rays, CT Scan, MRI) to us, and we can analyze them to educate you better on the results, implications, and road to recovery and to consider the findings in your wellness program. All of this when you book a Wellness Session with us!