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.
Thomas P. Andriacchi, PhD
Dr. Thomas P. Andriacchi is an emeritus professor of mechanical engineering and orthopaedic surgery at Stanford University. Over the course of his 50+-year career, Dr. Andriacchi has led pioneering research on knee joint biomechanics, the progression of osteoarthritis, and functional markers of musculoskeletal disease. He is the president of SomaTX Design Inc. and brings extensive expertise in translating scientific discovery into clinical application. Contact: tandriac@somatxdesign.com.