EP 7: Physical Medicine Assessment

In this week’s episode, Dr. Agolli and the previous episode’s guest, Dr. Malcolm Warren, explain how Progressive Medical Clinic’s staff evaluates new patients physically. They also shed light on the following questions:

1. What is the most important aspect of all human beings?
2. How is the human body like your cell phone?
3. Which questions should you ask yourself before deciding to have a major surgery?
4. What part of the brain is responsible for movement?
5. What is infrared thermography and why is it so beneficial?

The integrative physical examination is important because it combines conventional and holistic multi-modal physical examination¹. Integrating the results of both a conventional and holistic multi-modal physical examination defines an excellent veterinary diagnostician². Using the integrative physical examination in combination with conventional treatment plans and holistic principles can be interpreted as the “science and art” of integrative medicine²

Thermal imaging can be used in physical medicine exams as a non-contact thermography method to assess skin temperature as an extension of the clinician’s physical exam to aid in the formation of a medical diagnosis or treatment plan¹. Clinical thermography is a physiologic imaging technology that provides information on the normal and abnormal functioning of the sensory and sympathetic nervous systems, vascular system, musculoskeletal system, and local inflammatory processes². A medical thermal imaging camera creates a thermal image that displays different levels of heat that emits from the human body. This image serves as a signal to thermographers, operators, or doctors when the temperature is normal or elevated³.

Physical medicine is a branch of medicine that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the nerves, muscles, bones, and brain that may produce temporary or permanent impairment. It aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities.

A physical examination is a routine test performed by a primary care provider (PCP) to check your overall health. The exam is also known as a wellness check. The purpose of an annual physical exam is to determine the general status of your health and to identify any issues that may become medical concerns in the future. These exams are used to check for possible diseases so they can be treated early, update necessary immunizations, ensure that you are maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, and build a relationship with your PCP ¹.

The physical exam is important because it allows your PCP to confirm a diagnosis that is suspected on the basis of your medical history without any additional expenditure. It also informs your PCP about the pattern and severity of any disease you may have ². Regular screening allows your PCP to treat conditions such as high cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels before they become severe ¹.

It’s recommended that you have a physical exam at least once a year, especially if you are over the age of 50.