MRI Results: Confused

[eraser]

Hi Farce,

I am sorry your MRI didn't provide any clear answers. That is frustrating, but it is very common. In fact, I think most MRIs of people with pne don't show anything indicating pne. Dr. Hibner---at least years ago when I saw him---said he doesn't even recommend getting one because there are so many false negatives. Many times doctors do recommend them, though, if there is a need to rule out other problems. I have read people reporting on here that they have SI joint problems, so there may be a connection between that and pn, but my sense is that the problems here (some edema in the joints) would not be the cause of pn pain. Violet is the medical expert, though, so she may have better feedback on that issue. But your MRI results do not rule out surgery. You should still be eligible for it if your history and symptoms suggest you have pne. Have you met with a pne surgeon yet?

April

This expert consensus of opinion recommends a MRI to exclude other problems but not to look for entrapment - as even MR neurography is usually a complete waste of time. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1861

I wouldn't recommend anyone having a 3T MRI, if you are funding it yourself. If insurance is paying, then I would ahead with a 3T MRI as there is a small chance it might be useful. I know some people on here will disagree with this view but multiple doctors are no longer recommending them. It's disappointing that MR neurography doesn't give answers but it is the same with nerve conduction studies. The ideal candidate for decompression, will have normal nerve conduction studies. Entrapment is basically a diagnosis of exclusion.

[April]

Hi Eraser,

I agree with you, Eraser, that people should get an MRI if they have coverage for it. But I would add that if you're going to do it, it makes sense to try to use Dr. Hollis Potter's protocol for it (a radiologist in NY who designed a protocol for detecting pne). I think people can get that by emailing her office in New York and asking for it. Then you have to ask the prescribing doctor to send the protocol to the radiology clinic in advance and ask that they follow it.

April