MRIs are a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that allows our highly skilled, board-certified crew of radiologists to view highly detailed digital images of structures in the body. Since new and improved MRI technologies and methods are being developed all the time, we at Independent Imaging are constantly on the lookout for the latest news in diagnostic imaging. When we stumbled upon this next story we were too excited not to share!
Just last month, Oxford University Press released a new study on a high-precision MRI scanner that was used to view the brain activity in the orbitofrontal cortex of an individual diagnosed with depression. The orbitofrontal cortex is a part of the brain responsible for both reward reaction and non-reward reaction. To put it simply, it is the part of the brain that makes you feel a sense of loss and disappointment when you don’t win employee of the month.
It’s also responsible for your excitement and joy when you do. Per this recent study, we can attribute the tell-tale emotional signs of depression to a disconnect in the brain with the part that reacts joyfully when reward is given – the medial orbitofrontal cortex.
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States, but it is also an extremely common ailment globally. Not only does it cause severe emotional stress on the sufferer, but also several physical symptoms as well, such as: regularly decreased levels of energy, issues with sleeping regularly, lack of appetite, body aches and pains, and slower movement. It’s a diverse disease that affects everyone differently.
Antidepressants and therapy are currently staples of the depression treatment market, but with the advancement this study gives us into our understanding of the disease, just imagine the possibilities for better treatment development!
How amazing it is that we have the ability to physically see the source of an ailment that affects both the emotional and physical states of 1 in 10 people across the globe at some point in their lifetimes. Technology is truly incredible, and when applied to the field of medical diagnostics, it can do a lot of good. Our MRI technology can detect and help your doctor to diagnose many health conditions, such as vascular problems, musculoskeletal problems, spinal injuries, prostate issues, brain tumors, and dementia, just to name a few.
Are you ready to take the next step in your diagnostic journey? We’ll help you and your doctor get down to the bottom of your agonizing health symptoms with one of the many imaging services we provide. For more information, request an appointment online, or call our Wellington office today at (561) 795-5558.
