A recent study looked at how patient beliefs about medical imaging—like x-rays or MRIs—affect pain and physical ability in people with bone, muscle, or joint problems. Many patients think imaging is absolutely necessary for a proper diagnosis, ruling out serious problems, guiding treatment, or proving their symptoms are real.
“However, research shows these beliefs often don’t match clinical guidelines, which say imaging should only be used when truly needed since it rarely changes treatment plans and can sometimes cause unnecessary worry or lead to extra procedures.”
Over half of the people in the study believed imaging was essential for their care. The study found that these beliefs were linked to a small increase in difficulties caused by pain and a slight decrease in the ability to move or do daily activities, both at the start of treatment and six weeks later. In simple terms, the more strongly someone felt they needed imaging, the more pain got in the way of their life and the less physically capable they felt, but this effect was not dramatic.
Educating patients about when imaging is truly helpful—and when it isn’t—can lead to better treatment outcomes. Understanding that imaging is not always required can help patients feel more confident in their care and make more informed decisions, especially when receiving physical therapy or other active treatments.
Unsure if you need a scan? Contact us today to speak to our Physiotherapist who can advise you better!
Plante, J., Kucksdorf, J., Ruzich, J., Young, J. L., & Rhon, D. I. (2024). Do maladaptive imaging beliefs predict self-reported pain interference and physical function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders? Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 54(9), 608-617. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2024.12625
