What tests are most accurate for diagnosing cervical spondylosis and periarthritis of the shoulder?
Disease description:
I've been experiencing muscle soreness in my body these past couple of days, especially in my neck and shoulders. Sometimes the pain is so severe that I'm afraid to move. Someone suggested it might be cervical spondylosis or shoulder periarthritis, but I'm not sure which one it actually is. What kind of medical examination can accurately diagnose cervical spondylylosis versus shoulder periarthritis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
MRI is the most accurate imaging method for diagnosing cervical spondylosis, as it can clearly identify the location and severity of cervical disc herniation, as well as the compression of adjacent nerve roots and spinal cord. In MRI scans, T1 and T2 images allow clear visualization of nerve root edema, surrounding adhesions, and the size, position, and spatial relationship of nucleus pulposus prolapse with surrounding tissues. An accurate diagnosis of shoulder periarthritis requires a combination of physical examination by a physician, X-ray, and MRI. When necessary, X-ray and MRI can also be used to evaluate whether other intra-articular pathologies, including periarthritis of the shoulder, are present. Patients are advised to get adequate rest, keep their bodies warm, and avoid exposure to cold.
