re: OT doctors- talking ligaments

quote:

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My arm is feeling better, I can actually fully extend it now

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If it's feeling better, don't do anything about it. MRI is a great test. It's also expensive as all get-out. Here's your treatment algorithm:

1) Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, prescription dose. Speak with your doctor about it) x7 days

If still hurting:

2) Begin rehabilitation. If this is a prior injury and you know a decent rehab routine, by all means: repeat it. If it's not, ask for a PT referral. Continue NSAIDs for pain and inflammation. If pain and inflammation stop, discontinue NSAID regimen (prolonged use can lead to stomach ulcers) x6 weeks

3) If the pain and lack of range of motion persist 6 weeks out, consider imaging.



It sounds like you're somewhere between #1 and #2. An MRI would be a waste of money if you're paying for it. Even if it shows something, you would likely be referred to #2 before anything surgical would be done about it (most likely scenario, of course. There's a chance the doc is like "Oh. Hey. Let's go do surgery on that." But if you're currently describing "feeling better" and full extension, you likely don't have a surgical lesion, unless you mean something different by "better" than "on the path to feeling normal."




In short, wait it out. Work it hard. Put off the MRI.