Have you heard the news? As of May 2022, certified Physical Therapists can acquire accreditation to prescribe X-rays! An acute traumatic musculoskeletal injury (e.g. a fall) can benefit from such a prescription, which means no more long waits at the emergency room; your local physical therapist can evaluate and assess the need for medical imagery.
Furthermore, as of July 2022, X-rays that have been prescribed by a certified Physical Therapist are covered by RAMQ.
Physiotherapists can also use sonography as part of an appointment. A gel is applied to the skin, and the physiotherapist moves a transducer over the area of concern. Images appear instantly on a screen, allowing tissues to be observed both at rest and during movement.
Several Advantages
X-Ray prescription from a physiotherapist has many positive implications for patients, as well as our health care system! First, it allows patients to avoid many hours of waiting time at the emergency room, thus reducing congestion in our hospitals. Secondly, the result of the X-ray can directly be sent to your physical therapist, and in the case of a negative result, rehabilitation can begin without any further delays. Finally, in the case of a positive test result, your physical therapist can swiftly direct you towards the appropriate health care professional.
Regarding sonography, our physiotherapists can use this imaging tool during appointments to help you better understand the structures beneath the skin. Sonography provides real-time visualization of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and certain joints directly in the clinic. This means you can actually see what your physiotherapist is explaining to you! For example, sonography can be used during exercises as a form of biofeedback, allowing you to see what is happening inside your body as you move.
If you have any questions regarding X-ray prescription, or about the benefits of using sonography during a physiotherapy appointment, don’t hesitate to contact your Physical Therapist!
