Physio Reacts: Can AI Diagnose Your Back Pain?
The this episode of World’s Best Physio, Sam Suke reacts to ChatGPT’s ability to diagnose and treat one of the most common causes of lower back pain. The following is an educational article based on the video. Below the article is a full transcript with timestamps.
The Future of Back Pain Diagnosis—AI vs. Human
Lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and "discogenic" pain (pain originating from the spinal discs) is a primary culprit. As AI technology like ChatGPT advances, many patients are wondering: Do I still need to see a physical therapist?
What ChatGPT Gets Right AI is incredibly efficient at pattern recognition. When prompted with classic symptoms—such as pain that worsens when driving or bending over but improves when walking—ChatGPT accurately identifies the "mechanical" nature of the injury. It correctly highlights the McKenzie Method, a world-standard approach that uses repeated extensions to reduce disc pressure.
Where AI Falls Short While ChatGPT scored an 8/10 in our clinical test, it lacks three vital components of recovery:
Sequencing: A human physio knows exactly when to introduce core exercises. Doing them too early can actually increase intra-abdominal pressure and aggravate a bulging disc.
Manual Therapy: Physical touch and joint mobilization provide immediate symptomatic relief that a screen cannot offer.
The "Scan" Trap: AI often mentions MRIs. However, as Sam explains, many disc bulges naturally shrink within 6-8 weeks. A human therapist helps you navigate the psychological "impression" of an injury, ensuring you don't become "fear-avoidant" based on a single image.
Conclusion AI is a powerful tool for preliminary education, but for a tailored recovery plan that includes hands-on care and psychological reassurance, a qualified physiotherapist remains the gold standard.
Transcript Summary
In this episode of World's Best Physio, Sam Souk tests whether ChatGPT can accurately diagnose and treat discogenic lower back pain—one of the most common conditions seen at Exercise Thought.
Key Reactions:
Subjective Diagnosis: Sam gives ChatGPT "full marks" (10/10) for identifying key subjective symptoms: pain that is worse with sitting/slouching, gradual onset in young adults, and pain during coughing or sneezing.
Objective Assessment: The AI correctly identified clinical signs like lumbar flatness, pain with flexion, and relief with extension (the McKenzie Method).
Treatment Strategy: ChatGPT recommended reassurance, walking, and extension-based movements. Sam agreed with 80% of the plan but noted that the sequencing could be improved, suggesting that core stabilization shouldn't be rushed in the very first session.
The Verdict: Sam awards ChatGPT an 8/10. While AI is an excellent tool for information and diagnostic accuracy, it lacks the hands-on manual therapy, physical dexterity, and human compassion provided by a qualified physiotherapist.