A physiotherapist (physio) understands the musculoskeletal system like the back of their hand, and they use this knowledge to assess your body and identify areas of concern. They then employ tailored manual therapies that aim to address injuries, chronic conditions, and more.
But what if they need help making a diagnosis? Can a physio refer patients for MRI scans? In this article, we’ll detail what physiotherapists are able to refer, why you may need an MRI scan, and more.
For a personalised physiotherapy session or to learn more about what referrals a physiotherapist can make, contact our team at Ace Allied Health today.
Physiotherpy and MRI Scans
Can physiotherapists refer patients for an MRI scan? The short answer is yes. Physiotherapists have been known to refer patients for all kinds of scans, from X-rays and ultrasounds to MRI and CT scans. However, this usually only occurs under
specific circumstances.
With their in-depth understanding of the musculoskeletal system, most physiotherapists assess and aim to diagnose your concerns without a scan. However, if your issue is more complex, they may need scans to help narrow down the cause.
They may also refer you towards an MRI scan if treatment has not had the anticipated benefits. This is to double-check that the root cause of your concern has been correctly identified.
Medicare and Referral Scans
Unfortunately, only certain types of scans are covered under Medicare. While some scans, such as X-rays, receive rebates, MRI scans do not. If your physiotherapist deems an MRI scan necessary, it may cost you more than $300.
However, you may be able to get some of this cost covered if a surgeon refers you. If your physiotherapist believes you need an MRI scan, you should meet with your GP to discuss your options. They may be able to guide your next steps to help you manage and navigate the potential costs.
What is an MRI?
An MRI (short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan uses radio waves and a magnetic field to develop images of your bones, organs, and tissue. They are usually large, cylinder-shaped machines.
When taking an MRI, you will be guided to lie down on a tray. This tray will then slowly retract with you into the machine. The MRI machine then projects its magnetic field and radio waves at your body to begin the scan.
This may result in regular thumping, whirring, or tapping noises, which some people may find confronting. However, in many cases, you may be able to use earplugs to help ignore these noises. Depending on your needs, your scan may only take 15 minutes. But for many, it takes up to an hour to get a clear image.
What Conditions Might an MRI Scan Identify?
MRI scans create incredibly detailed 3D images that health professionals may assess from a variety of angles. This has been used to identify a wide range of conditions from brain trauma to tumours, blood conditions, and much more.
But why may an MRI scan be needed to support physiotherapy? Along with assessing the health of your internal organs, MRI scans also provide valuable insights into the musculoskeletal system.
Most of the time, a physiotherapist may recommend a scan to get a closer look at problem areas such as your hip joints, cervical spine, and pelvis.
They may also recommend an MRI to help assess other joint issues and the impact of repetitive injuries on your muscles and ligaments. Further, MRI scans may be used to get a closer look at potential spinal disc issues or other concerns.
Why You Should See a Physiotherapist
If you have been experiencing regular pain and difficulty moving, a physiotherapist may be able to help. They conduct comprehensive assessments that aim to identify the cause of your concern, with tailored care that may be able to improve your overall health and physical well-being.
But the right support is about more than manual therapy and exercise regimes. Your physiotherapist should be willing to discuss your needs in an understandable way and explore a variety of treatment options.
As a trained health professional, physiotherapists may refer you to other care options. Whether that be seeing a different provider or further scanning, they may help guide your next steps.
Find Support at Ace Allied Health
Have you had trouble identifying the cause of your pain or discomfort? Meeting with a qualified physiotherapist may help you find the cause. If you’re ready to shine a light on your concerns, reach out to our friendly staff at Ace Allied Health.
We’ll work closely with you to help you find the right care, whether that’s from our Bendigo (Kangaroo Flat), Maryborough, or Castlemaine clinic. Put yourself first and book your appointment today.
