64. Clinical Pearls That Will Make You a Better Decompression Doctor

🎙 Episode 64 – Clinical Pearls That Will Make You a Better Decompression DoctorIn this episode of The Practice Builders Podcast, Dr. Kyle Pankonin breaks down several clinical pearls that can help decompression doctors improve case selection, interpret MRI findings more accurately, and set better patient expectations.He covers why Modic Type 1 changes matter, how discogenic pain can exist even without obvious nerve compression, and why larger herniations like extrusions and sequestrations may actually have a better chance of reabsorption than smaller bulges.Key topics include:Why Modic Type 1 changes should change your treatment approachHow discogenic pain can exist without nerve compressionWhat rim enhancement may reveal about disc reabsorptionWhy larger herniations may respond better than expectedHow annular fissures can cause chemical radiculitis and may require inflammation control before decompressionThe big takeaway: don’t make clinical decisions based on one MRI finding alone. Understanding inflammation, herniation type, and the true pain generator helps you choose better cases and manage them more effectively.🎧 Listen now on your favorite platform!