What is Diagnostic Imaging and Why Would I Need It?
It is our main priority at The Perth Podiatrists to provide the best possible care to our patients. This includes making an accurate diagnosis after an in-depth consultation of the patient’s foot, ankle and lower limb. In some cases, a clinical examination alone is not enough to determine the underlying cause of pain or discomfort. This is where diagnostic imaging can help.
What is diagnostic imaging?
Podiatrists use diagnostic imaging to examine a range of musculoskeletal issues affecting the foot and ankle. If necessary, after conducting an external examination, diagnostic imaging can assess the internal structures, such as bone, muscle, ligament and tendon. This process may be required to confirm or exclude a specific pathology for a more accurate diagnosis, which will assist the Podiatrist in making a specific treatment plan and diagnosis. Outlined below are the different types of diagnostic imaging used in podiatry and information on why you may require a specific type of diagnostic imaging.
X-rays
X-rays are a commonly used diagnostic imaging tool. They provide a clear image of a patient’s bones and can help detect skeletal pathologies, such as fractures, arthritis and bone spurs. X-rays are quick and painless, making them a convenient option for both patients and Podiatrists. The patients and equipment are positioned by the radiographer, who then leaves the room momentarily to capture the images. Podiatrists may request specific views at certain angles to detect foot pathologies such as Tarsal Coalitions.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are a useful and a safe diagnostic tool commonly used by Podiatrists for soft tissue pathology such as Plantar Fasciitis They are very useful following an ankle inversion injury to assess ligament injury and ruptures. The images are taken by a sonographer in a slightly darkened room. Once the images have been taken, they are read and reported by the radiologist. Ultrasounds can be used directly on the site of pain and may be used to see what happens during movement, which is a technique often used when investigating a Morton’s Neuroma. Ultrasounds are painless, non-invasive and performed using gel and a hand-held scanner which is then moved over the patient’s skin on the affected area.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is another diagnostic imaging technique used by Podiatrists. Unlike x-rays, MRIs use radio waves and magnetic fields to produce detailed images of soft tissue but can also be used to see stress fractures and inflammation in bone. An MRI might be used in podiatry to differentiate between Shin Splints and Tibial Stress Fractures. MRIs are non-invasive but take longer to perform than x-rays and can be less comfortable, as patients are required to be stationary in a confined machine for the duration of the MRI. In addition, the MRI makes a loud clicking noise as it takes the images. Music is often played while the MRI images are taken to muffle the clicking sound to make the patient more comfortable. An MRI are only requested when required, for example, if an x-ray and ultrasound are not sensitive enough to see the pathology suspected (such as a stress fracture, which is not visible on an x-ray).
CT Scans
Computed Tomography (CT) scans are a form of diagnostic imaging that uses multiple x-rays and can be used to produce 3D images of bones . CT scans are particularly helpful in diagnosing complex fractures and deformities in bone structures. Similar to an MRI, patients are positioned on a long table that slides in and out of a circular, rotating machine while images are taken. However, unlike an MRI, there is no noise associated with CT scans. As your CT scans involve multiple x-rays, your Podiatrist will discuss with your doctor if a referral is required for a CT scan. In other areas of medicine and medical imaging, contrast mediums may be injected into the body for visualisation of soft tissue organs.
Why would I need diagnostic imaging?
There are several reasons your Podiatrist may refer you for diagnostic imaging. This may be to confirm a diagnosis, such as a stress fracture, which is difficult to diagnose precisely by a clinical examination. An x-ray may be used to confirm and identify the location of a fracture and the severity and type of fracture. Alternatively, an ultrasound may be beneficial in confirming a Flexor Plate Injury or Morton’s Neuroma.
Podiatrists may also use diagnostic imaging to determine the severity of an injury or condition. Determining the severity of the injury provides valuable information and treatment planning. For example, if you have a severe ankle sprain, an x-ray may reveal a fracture and an ultrasound may determine that there is a ruptured ligament which would require a period of immobilisation.
Diagnostic imaging can also help to monitor the progress of a condition or injury and timelines for returning to normal activities. The Perth Podiatrists will ensure that the condition is healing as expected and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Benefits of diagnostic imaging
Non-invasive/minimally invasive
Most diagnostic imaging is completely non-invasive, meaning it does not require any incisions or injections.
Painless
Diagnostic imaging is generally painless and does not require any anaesthesia. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure, although it’s usually related to their injury or concern and only temporary.
Safe
Diagnostic imaging is generally considered to be very safe. The amount of radiation exposure, such as an x-ray, is minimal and is not harmful to most people.
Accurate
Diagnostic imaging is a highly accurate tool for diagnosing medical conditions. The images produced are detailed and can provide Podiatrists with valuable insight into the internal structures of the body.
Quick
The majority of diagnostic imaging procedures are typically quick and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Diagnostic imaging is a valuable resource for Podiatrists when diagnosing and treating foot and ankle issues. By understanding the different types of diagnostic imaging available, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what to expect if your Podiatrist recommends imaging for your medical issue. Whether you need an X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, or CT scan, diagnostic imaging can help you to gain a clear diagnosis and effective treatment.
Gregory McCluney Perth Podiatrist DIP. POD, POST. GRAD. DIP. (POD)., M.SC. (POD)
Diagnostic imaging at The Perth Podiatrists
At The Perth Podiatrists, we routinely use diagnostic imaging in our practice to ensure we’re providing our patients with the best possible treatment plan. If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, we’d love to help you get back on your feet.
Book an appointment online to see one of our friendly podiatrists at our clinics in Woodlands or Duncraig.