New MRI Positioning for Better PHT Accuracy (2024 Study)

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Episode Summary:

In today’s episode, we dive into new research that explores an innovative MRI technique for diagnosing Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (PHT) with greater accuracy. We’ll break down a study titled ‘Magnetic Resonance Imaging With a Novel Hip Flexion Scanning Position for Diagnosing Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy’ including the study’s findings and discuss how this new hip flexion scanning position may help identify PHT pathology that traditional MRI positions could miss.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Traditional MRI Position: Lying on your back with legs outstretched has been the standard scanning position. However, this method may miss some crucial signs of PHT, especially in tendinopathy cases where physical changes in the tendon aren’t obvious.
  • Novel MRI Position: A new method involves scanning patients on their side with hips flexed at approximately 90 degrees, mimicking the sitting position that often aggravates PHT symptoms. This position may reveal more severe injuries, such as tendon ruptures, that could be missed in the traditional position.
  • Study Results: The study found that using the hip flexion position increased the detection of severe tendon issues, including tendon ruptures, in 33% of cases, which were initially diagnosed as normal or less severe using the traditional method.
  • Implications for Runners and Patients: If you’re dealing with PHT symptoms and undergoing an MRI, it may be worth discussing the option of scanning in this hip-flexed position with your healthcare provider.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why PHT can be challenging to diagnose accurately with standard MRI techniques.
  • The importance of considering alternative MRI positions for more accurate results.
  • Understanding that an MRI is just one piece of the puzzle when diagnosing and treating tendinopathy.
  • Why pain severity doesn’t always correlate with MRI findings and how this can affect your treatment plan.

By tuning into this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights into the evolving science behind PHT diagnosis and learn how to be a more informed participant in your own recovery process.