RA Docs and X rays | Arthritis Information

 

I'd like to hear about other's experiences with their RA docs taking xrays.  I got a high priced lady doc who apprently doesn't believe in them.  It was my understanding that they should take regular xrays periodically to judge the progression of damage to the bones.

Awhile back, I harped on it a bit and she took xrays of my hands, put them up on the screen and showed me that the disease had taken little "nibbles" out of my hand bones.  But no more were ever taken and its been too long.   I have good insurance and I can't figure out why she'd resist.   Aren't docs supposed to like spending insurance money?

         

 

 I have a great lady doc. who also doesn't take many Xrays unless she sees that things have changed extremely between visits.  Do to the many falls I have had I seem to need more Xrays and MRI"S.  I recently broke several bones in my chest but I knew Xrays would do me no good.  As a nurse I knew the area that got broke had no way of being fixed.  Xrays aren't always necessary for they don't really show everything a doctor is looking for - my docs always preferred MRI's.  Hope that helps a bit.Hello to both - my doctor says X-Rays once a year, just to check the
progress of the disease.I have been told I will need them once a year as well.  We didn't take them initially because we are saving expenses.  I am paying cash for my doctor. I haven't been told to get any x-rays yet. Maybe on my next appointment he'll suggest it. I know I'll have to get a yearly eye exam.My rheumy did XRays on the first visit - unfortunately he was
horrified by what he saw. His quote was "Did you see your toes -
you have severe bone degeneration" - I guess that was why my toe
was hurting all those years! (not gout like the orthopedist diagnosed
4 years ago)

I don't know how often he will follow up though. I thank God my
aunt, who has RA, insisted that I go visit her rheumy - he is so cool,
he has rock and roll posters all over his office and better yet - he
listen, understands and is finally helping with the pain.
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