MRIs are increasingly used to detect early signs of osteoarthritis - but are they truly beneficial for most people? On this week's episode, we examine the role of MRI scans in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis, particularly in its early stages. Joined by leading experts Dr. Alison Chang, a professor of Physical Therapy at Northwestern University, and Dr. Ali Guermazi, a Radiology professor at Boston University, we explore the genuine value of MRIs. Our discussion highlights when these imaging tests can be helpful and when they might lead to unnecessary interventions. We also discuss why many MRI-detected changes don't actually progress into osteoarthritis and share practical advice for effectively managing knee health.

Tune in for an evidence-based conversation to understand when MRIs truly add value - and when they may not.

RESOURCES

• Learn more about the frequency of MRI-detected structural abnormalities in healthy, pain-free individuals: https://x.com/OACJournal/status/1843050098579943647
• View the diagram illustrating Alison Chang’s 'inverted-U curve' concept of how activity levels relate to body capacity: Capacity vs. Load graphs_Dr Alison Chang.pdf

CONNECT WITH US

• Twitter: @ProfDavidHunter @jointactionorg
• Instagram: @osteoarthritisresearchgroup
• Email: osteoarthritis.research@sydney.edu.au
• Website: www.jointaction.info/podcast

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