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Extent of type 1 Modic changes associated with positive changes in low back pain
According to findings in a recently published study, the extent of type 1 Modic changes was correlated with positive changes in the Oswestry Disability Index score for low back pain.
The study included 64 consecutive patients with chronic low back pain with either type 1 (M1) Modic changes or mixed M1 / type 2 (M2) changes on lumbar spine MRI. Researchers recorded the size and type of Modic changes on sagittal lumbar MRI and clinical data regarding low back symptoms at baseline and at follow-up 2 years later. Using linear regression analysis, the researchers also analyzed changes to the extent of M1 and M2 to determine whether any associations with changes in low back pain intensity and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) occurred.
Patients’ mean low back pain intensity score was 6.5 at baseline, and mean ODI was 33%. Fifteen patients experienced an increase in intensity and 41 experienced a decrease in intensity at follow-up, whereas ODI was observed to increase in 19 patients and decrease in 44 patients, according to the researchers.
Results of the univariate analysis showed the extent of M1 changes was significantly positively associated with changes in low back pain intensity and ODI; however, changes in the extent of the M2 did not associate with changes in the ODI.
After adjustment for age, gender and size of MC at baseline, the researchers found the extent M1 changes remained positively associated with change in the ODI. – by Robert Linnehan
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.