A podiatrist is a medical professional who works to treat foot conditions and injuries. Depending on the condition, this can require an in-depth assessment to help the podiatrist determine the severity of the issue. To do this a podiatrist needs to have access to the right tools.
Diagnostic imaging services can help a podiatrist determine the extent of an injury or condition. As such, a podiatrist can refer patients to get imaging services like X-rays, CT scans or MRIs. But when is this necessary and how does it work? In this article, we’ll explain when a podiatrist might need to order an MRI and how it can help.
For personalised advice, contact our team at the Foot and Leg Pain Centre today.
Why Would a Podiatrist Order Diagnostic Imaging?
There are a range of different scans a podiatrist may refer you to. Depending on the symptoms and severity of your condition, they may need them to accurately diagnose your experience.
Confirming whether or not you have a fracture as opposed to a torn ligament or tendon, can severely impact the type of treatment you need. With a detailed image and an accurate assessment, a podiatrist can determine the best action plan to treat your condition.
MRIs
MRI scans are an imaging technique that highlights tendons, bones and muscles. The MRI uses magnetic waves and radio signals to create an image of part of your body. If you have been experiencing chronic pain in your feet or dealing with constant infections, an MRI can help identify the cause.
With accurate in-depth imaging, a podiatrist can study your scan to determine if you have specific muscle tears or bone fractures. Likewise, an MRI can help a podiatrist confirm if you have arthritis or any other potential concerns, like infections and tumours.
CT Scans
A CT scan provides images that show cross-sectional parts of the body. This is an advanced version of an X-ray. By using a more refined beam, a CT scan rotates around the body to get a fully realised image.
This can help podiatrists look at multiple levels of your feet to identify the size, shape and position of any issues. This can also include fractures, arthritis, tumours and much more.
Ultrasound Imaging
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce an image of your foot. The reflection of the sound waves off the body is recorded to produce an image.
This technique can help podiatrists identify conditions like tendonitis and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Conditions that affect the nerves and tendons in your foot. Likewise, it can identify other injuries and conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
X-rays
An X-ray is less in-depth than the other three scanning systems. They are utilised to identify the density of bones and determine if any fractures or breaks have occurred. This can help the podiatrist not only determine what injury you have but also confirm your feet are healing correctly.
X-rays can also help podiatrists confirm the natural alignment of your bones. If your ankle or foot bones are misaligned it can cause pain or difficulty walking. Understanding which specific bones are out of alignment can help a podiatrist tailor their treatment plan to meet your needs.
Does Medicare Cover Diagnostic Imaging?
Like many GPs, a podiatrist can refer patients to get diagnostic imaging. However, when referred by a podiatrist some scans are not covered by Medicare, such as MRIs and CT scans.
As Medicare does not cover MRIs and CT scans they must be covered out of pocket. These costs generally range from around $200 for a CT scan and $400 for an MRI.
X-rays are the least expensive of the imaging techniques as they offer less in-depth scans. However, they can generally be partially or fully covered under Medicare. Likewise, Ultrasound imaging also offers limited rebates if you need a closer look at your feet without facing too much cost.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you are experiencing lower leg or foot pain of any kind, a podiatrist can help you find the cause. With an in-person assessment, they can talk through your concerns and determine what next steps to take. If you are not sure what the cause may be, a podiatrist can order imaging services to get confirmation of your condition.
Whether you need an MRI, X-ray or CT scan a podiatrist can get you the referral you need. Contact our team today to book an appointment. Avoid putting off treatment and get the right support for you.
