MRI is currently the gold standard for identifying radicular pathology, but unfortunately, it requires preauthorization, which isn’t easy to obtain. Physical tests are what most practitioners depend on – despite the marginal reliability of the tests. The information in this article brings history and observation to the forefront of radicular diagnostics. Each factor listed can significantly increase the clinician’s ability to diagnose radiculopathies.
Katrinka van der Merwe, DC
Dr. Katrinka van der Merwe, founder and CEO of The Spero Clinic in Fayetteville, Ark., grew up as the daughter of a successful chiropractor outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. She immigrated to the United States of America in 1994 at the age of 20, and received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Parker College of Chiropractic. Upon graduation, she set out to study post graduate techniques and courses that would allow her to treat chronically and acutely ill patients without any hope. Dr. Katinka has lectured extensively around the world and is the author of Taming the Beast: A Guide to Conquering Fibromyalgia and Putting Out the Fire: New Hope for CRPS; and a co-author of the best-selling, recently published Wakeup: Miracles of Healing From Around the World.