CT scans, MRIs, X-rays ... we've all had at least one at some point! But are they always necessary in proper diagnosis and treatment? 

In this episode of The Better Ageing Podcast we're discussing scans and the role they play in the treatment of common conditions like joint pain and osteoarthritis. In particular we look at recent guidelines that outline how scans should be used by health professionals, how sometimes scans can be misleading, when they should be used, and why avoiding unnecessary scans is a good idea. Importantly, we conclude that health professionals should always treat the person in front of them and their symptoms/story and not the scan or image.

As always, we hope this episode helps you better understand your own health and wellbeing and how you can care for those you love too. If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us: https://newtricksco.com.au/contact/

Show notes/ topics covered:

0:07 - Welcome 
0:56 - Introduction to scans
1:30 - When are scans needed? 
3:11 - Clinical practice guidelines 
5:01 - Is unnecessary testing bad? 
7:00 - Lower back pain statistics 
11:07 - Treat the person not the image 
12:21 - Scans do not have a role in diagnosis of osteoarthritis 
13:40  - Closing thoughts 

About the experts: 

Jason Lee and Dr Jane Fyfield have over 45 years of experience working with elderly Australians. Jason Lee runs his own physiotherapy practice, with a focus on strength and conditioning programs for over 60 year olds. Dr Jane Fyfield works as a consultant to aged care services, is a former Medical Director, and has worked in the public, private and government sectors as a clinician and a non-clinical consultant.