52-year-old female patient with lumbar disc issues and knee bone spurs would like to undergo a comprehensive physical examination. How should she choose the appropriate examination items?
Disease description:
I am 52 years old this year, and I have lumbar disc herniation and bone spurs in my knee. I would like to have a comprehensive physical examination. Which medical tests should I choose?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
A 52-year-old female with lumbar disc herniation can undergo imaging examinations of the lumbar spine, such as lumbar CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can clearly show the severity, direction of the disc herniation, and its compression on the nerves. The function of the lumbar muscles can also be assessed, for example, using the straight leg raise test to evaluate whether the nerve roots are compressed.
For knee osteophytes (bone spurs), knee X-ray examination can be performed to observe the presence of bone spurs. Knee MRI can more clearly reveal damage to structures such as the articular cartilage and meniscus. Additionally, tests such as complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) can help determine whether inflammation is present.
Bone density testing can assess bone condition and determine whether osteoporosis exists. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography can also be performed to screen for cardiovascular diseases, as middle-aged and elderly individuals are at high risk for cardiovascular diseases.
It is recommended to visit a regular hospital and undergo examinations under the guidance of a qualified physician.
