What Is Musculoskeletal Radiology?
Physicians who subspecialize in musculoskeletal radiology know how to use imaging to diagnose and help other physicians treat diseases and conditions of the muscles and skeleton. Most often, musculoskeletal radiologists employ MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), x-rays, CT (computerized tomography), and ultrasound.
What Other Physicians Do Musculoskeletal Radiologists Work With?
Our radiologists work closely with other physicians and with the patient. We strive to make certain that communication is clear and complete among all parties. Our musculoskeletal radiologists frequently work with:
- Orthopedic surgeons
- Physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists)
- Chiropractors
- Rheumatologists
What Health Issues and Body Systems Does This Subspecialty Work On?
Sports-related injuries, joint and spine pain management such as arthritis, and tumors in the bones and muscles are among the health issues this subspecialty diagnoses and helps treat.
MRIs are often performed to evaluate joint disorders for soft tissue and bone injury, arthritis, spine disk and bone issues, tumors, work-related disorders caused by repeated strain, vibration or impact and infections such as osteomyelitis.
Our musculoskeletal subspecialists also diagnose pain, swelling and bleeding in the tissues in and around joints and bones.
X-rays are very frequently used to diagnose fractures, dislocations, arthritis, infection, and tumors.
CTs are frequently performed to better evaluate certain findings seen on x-rays such as certain fractures, or to detect abnormalities that are hidden on x-rays.
We use ultrasound for tendon tears, foreign bodies, small soft tissue tumors, fluid pooling within the soft tissues and joints, and abnormalities of the muscles.
How Does This Radiology Physician Work With The Referring Physician?
The radiologist’s role varies, depending on the health issue, your personal or referring physician, and you, the patient. At Radiology & Imaging, we prefer to have our radiologists as actively involved as possible in diagnosing and considering treatment options.
Our musculoskeletal radiologists have extensive training and experience in reading images of the soft tissues and bones. That high degree of expertise enables them to see and properly identify characteristics in the images that better equip your personal physician to diagnose the condition, treat it and give you the best opportunity for better long-term health.
