Questions for Dr. during MRI review?

I pushed myself into what I think was an overuse back injury last November/December. Sports dr. in the spring thought likely herniation, but no red flags. I attempted to follow BBM advice related to staying active and attempted to reintroduce load basically from the get-go, but never got very far and experienced repeated set-backs with worsening in last month.

I’ve chronicled my struggles in a training log on this forum.

Most recently, in context of new, radiating nerve symptoms and months-long hip burning, finally asked for an MRI. Per BBM literature and the studies I’ve read, I was reluctant to get one earlier. I regret not getting it ealrier though, as now I dont have a longitudinal view of my back. I am scheduled to meet with Dr. to review results Nov. 16.

I am curious if there are any particular questions or information I should be asking during the visit that would be helpful. Especially for later communicating to other specialists in hopes of one day getting back under the bar consistently.

Hi,

Sorry to hear about this issue. It sounds like some professional guidance may have been helpful earlier in the process, although I don’t have enough information to say with confidence that earlier imaging would have been necessary.

I regret not getting it ealrier though, as now I dont have a longitudinal view of my back.​

Can you clarify what you mean by this, or how you think that earlier knowledge would have helped you?

To your question – it would mainly relate to what interventions are being offered, what their potential risks and potential benefits are in your situation. It is difficult to say much more here without knowing a lot more about you, which would require a consultation. Our rehab team would be happy to meet with you, if you are interested in another opinion.

Thank you for the response, I appreciate the work you all do and want to get back to the BBM beginner programming! I plan to reach out to the rehab team to set up a consultation.

While I can’t know for sure, unless there is something really unusual going on, I do not think that a March MRI would have helped or changed anything in my rehab attempts or trajectory of issues. The studies I’ve read and the BBM literature (as I interpret it) support that most back issues including herniations heal on their own over the course of time. My regret in not getting a March MRI is not having it as a comparison point for the October MRI to see evidence of changes over time. Specifically, to the extent the October MRI does show herniation or bulge, whether it appears improved, worse, or the same. I could see that having some influence on my approach going forward. I do understand that even if imaging shows evidence of herniation or other abnormality, it is not necessarily the cause of pain or issues.

Best wishes